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A CLB MEDIA INC. PUBLICATION • MARCH 2009 • VOLUME 45 • ISSUE 3ElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYTnB_earlug_EB_March09.indd 12/27/09 10:34:07 AMAlso in this issue...• Passive filter bank beats backharmonics (Page 10)• Transformer oil coolers (Page 24)• CSA Z462 puts the squeeze onsmall electrical contractors(Page 23)Protectingelectronicsin the industrialenvironmentmission-criticalPM # 40063602

ElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYMarch 2009 • Volume 45 • Issue 3▼ From the editorTake time to evaluate your businessELECTRICAL BUSINESS is the magazine of the Canadian electricalindustry. It reports on the news and publishes articles in a mannerthat is informative and constructive.EditorAnthony Capkun - acapkun@clbmedia.caPublisherJohn MacPherson - jmacpherson@clbmedia.caAccount ManagerScott Hoy - shoy@clbmedia.caEB Editorial Advisory BoardTom Crist, Kerry Heid, Ron Bergeron, Stephen Tatrallyay, DanMott, John Vickery, Ian Dempsey and Pierre DowdArt DirectorSvetlana Avrutin - savrutin@clbmedia.caProduction ManagerRobert Russell - rrussell@clbmedia.caCreative DirectorEinar Rice - erice@clbmedia.caManager, ProductionLisa Drummond - ldrummond@clbmedia.caSubscriber Customer Service RepresentativeKristen Schulz-Lacey - kschulz-lacey@clbmedia.ca240 Edward Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3S9Tel: 905-727-0077 Fax: 905-727-0017PresidentStuart MorrisonVice President, Media, PublishingNiel HiscoxVice President, Finance/Corporate DevelopmentKent MilfordVice President, Human ResourcesSusan BishopVice President, IT and OperationsDavid OverallDirector, Industrial GroupFrank ShonikerDirector, Professional GroupKaren LorimerDirector, Manufacturing GroupNigel BishopDirector, Editorial and ProductionJackie RothDirector, Facility Management and LogisticsSteve DaleDirector, Human ResourcesDenise DesrosiersDirector, Product & Business DevelopmentTodd PhillipsDirector, ITPhillip DamianidisCirculationNancy Gaston - ngaston@clbmedia.caUrszula Grzyb - ugrzyb@clbmedia.caSUBSCRIPTION RATES:Canada: Single issue $7.00 • Ten issues: $35.00 (including tax)USA: $59.00 (US) and International: $75.00 (US) per yearUnited States Second Class Postage Paid at Lewiston, NY(USPS-741-470) US POSTMASTER: send address changes toELECTRICAL BUSINESS, P.O. Box 8145, Lewiston, NY 14092The contents of Electrical Business are copyright by ©2009 CLB MediaInc. and may not be reproduced in whole or part without written consent.CLB Media Inc. disclaims any warranty as to the accuracy, completenessor currency of the contents of this publication and disclaims all liabilityin respect of the results of any action taken or not taken in reliance uponinformation in this publication. REPRINTS: Contact The Reprint Outsourceat (877) 394-7350.Send address changes to:ELECTRICAL BUSINESS240 Edward Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3S9Return Postage GuaranteedCanada Post - Canadian Publications Mail Sales ProductsAgreement 40063602 ISSN 0013-4244Printed in CanadaIt’s tough finding good things to say when things are lookingpretty gloomy. Despite various world governments’efforts to provide assurances, we can’t help but feel theworld is in the toilet. Still, the latest news I heard was thatsome analysts are predicting the recession will be over this year,with recovery getting into full swing next year.For those of you who have had to lay off some of your workforce,this should be encouraging, but if you’re like me—mildlypessimistic—then you’re taking a wait-and-see stance.Meantime, until we do get back into the swing of things(and we will... we always do), what are you doing to improveyour business? What efforts are you putting in toward reevaluatingyour current business model? What things continue towork well for your business, and what things do not or willnot?I ask these questions because now might be an excellenttime for reflection and establishing goals.It’s something every business, no matter how large or small,should do regularly—both in anticipation of, and to fightthrough, times like these. Ideally, you come out stronger andbetter for it.Take Electrical Business magazine, for example. In just afew years, it will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. Everyonecontinues consuming electricity, meaning there is always aneed for electrical professionals, and EB remains committedto serving those professionals for another 50 years and beyond.But should we remain strictly a printed magazine in today’sinformation age?The answer, arrived at years ago, is “No”. We need to expandCONTENTSFEATURESOn the cover and page 14our offering to be able to serve different reader styles andneeds. The first thing was a website. Next came “E-Line: YourIndustry News Broadcast”, which is our free monthly e-newsletter.This was followed by The BlueBook, the buyers’ guidefor all things electrical in Canada. Then came L’industrie électrique,our French-language electrical publication for Quebec.This was followed by NETcomm Conferences (done throughour sister property, NETcomm), which focus on low-voltagecommunications technologies.And, debuting this summer at the S&D Conference, Distribution& Supply magazine: a new publication serving ourprofessionals in the electrical channel. Add to that the fact thatwe’ve also branched into custom publishing and multimedia/video production, and you can see that—while we continueto deliver our core product (the magazine you hold in yourhand)—we’ve added numerous other “services”, if you will,to our product offering.Now take this admittedly simple example and compare itto your own business. Besides focusing on your core, what elseare you doing to ensure you’re meeting the changing needsof your customers? Or, what are you doing to ensure you cando your core business better than your competitor? Are youattending conferences or classes to upgrade your skills? Areyou pursuing additional certifications?Take time to evaluate both your business and position inthe market so that when we come out of this recession, yourbusiness is better for it and better able to weather the nextone.Protecting mission-critical electronics in the industrial environmentToday’s engineers are designing increasingly sophisticated control systems involving increasingly sensitiveelectronic equipment; when mixed with the inherently poor power environment of an industrial facility andaging power generation and distribution facilities, a variety of power- and electrical noise-based problemsinevitably result. Understanding these problems, as well as some of their causes and solutions, can helpensure the design of reliable and cost-effective mission-critical electronic systems.10 A low-cost passive filter bank beats back harmonicsDespite increasing demands on power systems, consumers expect clean, reliable power. Theseconditions are rarely met, unfortunately, due to non-linear loads that affect the power quality.However, significant research conducted in the reduction and elimination of the harmonicsproduced by non-linear type loads has resulted in several different types of harmonic eliminationmethods, including passive filter banks.24 Transformer oil coolers: essential for ensuringoptimal operationsTransformer oil coolers play a critical role in keeping electrical generationsystems reliable. They’re a small investment that protect the power industry’shuge capital investment in the massive transformers that make up thebackbone of a nation’s energy supply.25 Regional FocusNova Scotia incorporates new electrical contractorassociation, energy strategy identifies The Yukon’s visionand priorities, record spending in New Brunswick’s postsecondaryeducation infrastructure, and more.DEPARTMENTS4 Industry News7 Letters to the Editor8 Personalities12 Calendar20 It’s Your BusinessWinning in tough times:Small changes make big differences!22 Vehicles and AccessoriesProducts/technologies thattake effi ciency to the next level23 Mind Your SafetyCSA Z462 puts the squeezeon small electrical contractors26 Products28 Multimedia Resources30 Code FileRule 36-110, Tables 33 and 3430 The Code Conundrumpage 22www. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 3

INDUSTRY NEWSOsram Sylvania ‘The Next Icon LED’ lighting challengeOsram Sylvania has issued a challengeto Canadian manufacturers of lightingfixtures: the search is on for viabledesigns using Osram LED componentsand technology. “The Next Icon” OsramLED Design Challenge aims to furtherCanadian innovation and create awarenessof the environmental and economic advantages ofLED applications.The company sees an opportunity to develop the presenceof widely recognizable LED-based fixtures. “Thischallenge is a call for lighting designs we can celebrate andthen help bring to market,” says Steven Duff, Osram Sylvania’sdirector, Special Lighting Markets. “We are activelyseeking partners with innovative fixture designs that we cansupport and make a reality.”The entries will be highlighted at Lightpoint Canada,Osram’s lighting educational facility. The fixtures willalso be displayed, with winners being chosen by popularvote, at the Light Canada Expo at the IIDEX designshow in September.Osram Sylvania’s commitment to all designs also includespromotion in trade journals and prominence in the company’sCanadian LED Fixture Guide.“We’re serious about creating LED solutions andthen working with manufacturers to help get them intothe hands of end users,” said Duff. Entries designed forillumination applications may be for direct or indirect,backlit or spot, ambient or task, indoor or outdoorapplications.The design challenge’s moniker, “The Next Icon” pointsto the open opportunity to popularize LED lighting. “Weare working to help create design icons using LEDs,”said Duff. “So between rising energy costs, maintenanceexpenses, regulatory changes, designer chic and emergingLED technology, the time is right for stand-out designsthat are imaginative and work well.”NQ & NF “Ready to Install” PanelboardsYou spoke... We listenedNew 240V NQ PanelboardsDesigned and tested with electricalcontractor input. Ready When You Are Simple to Install Built to Last NQ, NF Common boxes and trims: Less stock - More valueImproved600Y/347V NF PanelboardsRedesigned to meet the evolving needsof our customers. Enhanced RTI offer Continued Reliabilitywww.schneider-electric.caSeacliff completes Canem West acquisitionSeacliff Construction Corp. has completed its acquisitionof Canem West Services Inc. and Canem WestOperations Inc. (Canem West), an independentlyowned electrical and data communications contractorbased in Vancouver, B.C. Seacliff says the $8-millionacquisition strengthens the competitive position ofCanem Systems (Canem), its existing electrical anddata communications contracting arm.“This acquisition is highly complementary to ourexisting business,” said Bill Crarer, Seacliff’s CEO.“Together, Canem and Canem West will be able todeliver a broader range of electrical and data communicationservices to more customers in more locationsacross B.C. and Alberta.”The successful completion of the acquisition morethan doubles Canem’s Vancouver team, with theaddition of about 75 skilled field technicians and11 office staff. As a result, Canem is now positionedto bid on much larger contracts, including publicprivate-partnerships(P3s). In the near term, CanemWest will operate as a separate division of Canem,with full integration expected by late this year.Canem West was incorporated as a fully independentbusiness in 1997 following a strategic reorganization atCanem Systems. Since then, it has become a providerof next-generation electrical and data communicationsolutions to a blue-chip institutional and commercialclient base. Long-term customers include BC Hydro,the Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C. (WCB),the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia(ICBC) and Bentall LP.Seacliff intends to continue growing its businessthrough the strategic acquisition of other general andelectrical contracting companies.“With no debt and over $100 million cash on ourbalance sheet, Seacliff has significant resources todeploy,” said Bill Crarer, adding the company is currentlyevaluating a number of acquisition prospects.Seacliff’s business is conducted through two businessunits: Dominion Construction, a general contractor,and Canem Systems, an electrical contractor.Fluke Corporation acquiresHawk IR InternationalFluke Corp., the global player in portable electronic testand measurement technology, has acquired Hawk IRInternational Ltd. of North Yorkshire, U.K. The latterwill continue to operate as Hawk IR International aspart of the Fluke Electronics Industrial Division.The acquisition represents a significant globalopportunity for Hawk IR International, says Fluke,adding that under Fluke ownership, Hawk IR willhave access to resources, business systems and channelsto market that will expand its ability to deliverproducts that improve the safety and efficiency ofthermal imaging.“We are extremely proud to be part of the Flukefamily,” said Tony Holliday, Hawk’s managing director.“As the world leader in thermal imaging for industrialapplications, Fluke Thermography gels perfectly withour arc-resistant infrared sightglass products. With aglobal network of electrical experts and distributors,the combination will bring safe and efficient electricalthermography to users worldwide.”“Bringing Hawk IR into the Fluke family providesbenefits to both organizations, as well as to our channelpartners and customers,” said Fluke Industrialpresident Ken Konopa. “Customers of both Flukeand Hawk IR benefit from a coordinated offering ofthermal imagers and peripheral equipment, as well asbeing able to tap a rich base of knowledge.”Caterpillar extends 0% APR financingprogram on compact gensetsCaterpillar Inc. is offering 0% APR financing on allNorth American compact generator sets 600ekW(equivalent kilowatt) and smaller to help customersmeet their needs for standby and prime power applicationswhile benefiting from below-market interest rates.The deal is available only through Caterpillar dealers.Extended through its subsidiary, Caterpillar Financial,the financing program is offered over a 12-monthSchneider_2_EB_Nov08.indd 14 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com11/6/08 1:55:22 PM

INDUSTRY NEWSrepayment period on any qualifying purchases madebefore December 31, 2009, and shipments scheduledprior to May 31, 2010. Promotional rates will apply onall new Caterpillar and Olympian diesel or gas gensetsup through and including 600ekW, as well as rentalXQ packages and Caterpillar-branded ATS, UPS andswitchgear products (including PointGuard systems).The program encompasses installment sale contractsand full payout finance leases. Caterpillar’s 0%APR financing offer is based on price and applicablesales tax. An additional 10% of the total purchase canbe used for customer installation and other soft costs.Low financing rates are also available to qualified customerspurchasing equipment on longer terms.All rates are subject to change on a quarterly basisand are based on approved customer credit. CatPower Finance quotations will remain valid for 30days beyond the date of the quote.IEEE commemorates 125 yearsAfter rising for seven consecutive quarters, investment inToronto recorded a decline, the result of decreases in the commercialand industrial components.Commercial componentOn a quarterly basis, investment in commercial buildingsincreased in the fourth quarter, mainly as a result of higher spendingon the construction of office buildings in British Columbiaand storage and recreational buildings in Quebec.Overall, seven provinces and three territories recorded increasesin commercial investment. The largest contributors (in dollars)were British Columbia (+2.8% to $928 million), Quebec (+2.0%to $1.1 billion), Manitoba (+16.5% to $137 million) and Newfoundland& Labrador (+54.1% to $49 million).In contrast, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan recordeddeclines resulting from lower spending in several commercialbuilding categories.Institutional componentSpending in the institutional component advanced for a fourthconsecutive quarter, mainly as a result of higher investment ineducational and health care buildings.Q4 investment increases were shared by six provinces andtwo territories. Ontario recorded the largest gain in dollars,followed by Alberta, as a result of significant spending onthe construction of educational and health care buildings.In contrast, Manitoba posted the largest reduction in dollars.This was the result of the completion of institutionalconstruction projects started at the end of 2006 and 2007.Industrial componentInvestment in industrial building construction declinedfor the second consecutive quarter. Increases in spendingon several industrial building categories in six provinceswere more than offset by declines that occurred mainlyin the construction of manufacturing plants in Ontario,Alberta and British Columbia.Even so, the $1.4-billion Q4 total for industrial constructionwas 3% higher than the average quarterly levelrecorded in 2007. This increase was largely attributableto a rise in construction activity on utilities and primaryindustry buildings.195310464 Series cable fittingIEEE, the self-proclaimed largest technical professionalsociety in the world, is commemorating its125th anniversary this year with a variety of activitiesrevolving around the theme of “Celebrating 125Years of Engineering the Future”.Major anniversary events include the first IEEEPresidents’ Change the World Competition for collegeand university students worldwide; a globalmedia roundtable and webcast addressing emerging,world-changing technologies; a series of celebrationsin major world cities throughout the year; and IEEEEngineering the Future Day on May 13 (the actualanniversary date).IEEE traces its roots to the founding of the AmericanInstitute of Electrical Engineers by early industrygiants such as Thomas Alva Edison and AlexanderGraham Bell. Today’s global IEEE has become a“trusted source for fostering technological innovationand excellence for the benefit of humanity aswell as the profession”.To ensure that IEEE members, media, members ofthe technology industry and the general public have aone-stop resource for everything related to the anniversary,IEEE launched an anniversary website to provideup-to-date information on anniversary activities.The latest information is available on the new anniversarywebsite, www.ieee125.org.Investment in non-residential buildingconstruction, Q4 2008StatsCan reports non-residential constructionreached $11 billion in current dollars in the fourthquarter of 2008, up 1.7% from Q3. In 2002 constantdollars, however, investment was down 1.2%from the third quarter. The increase in current dollarswas mainly the result of rises in institutional andcommercial building construction.Investors spent $6.8 billion on commercial projects,up 1.5% from Q3, while investment rose 3.7% to $2.8billion in the institutional component. Spending in theindustrial component declined 1% to $1.4 billion.All provinces and two territories recorded advancesin the fourth quarter. The fastest increases occurredin Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland & Labradorand Alberta—mainly the result of higher spendingon institutional and commercial buildings.Investment rose in 27 of 34 census metropolitanareas. The largest increase occurred in Edmonton,where significant increases in the institutional andcommercial components resulted in a 7% advanceto $614 million in the fourth quarter.As the demands placed on electricalconnections have evolved, so haveThomas & Betts teck cable fittings.Since 1953, Thomas & Betts engineershave incorporated feedback fromend-users working in the harshest andmost corrosive industrial environments.The result is StarTeck ® , a family ofhigh performance cable fittings that,year after year, remain the industrybenchmark for reliable constructionand ease of installation.Needs change. The Thomas & Bettscommitment to meet them doesn't.To find out about the latest additionsto the StarTeck ® family, contact yourlocal sales representative.Atlantic : 1-877-862-4357Quebec : 1-800-465-1399Ontario : 1-877-291-7771Mid-West : 1-866-540-8220AB : 1-888-664-5666B.C. : 1-866-540-8220w w w . t n b - c a n a d a . c o mTnB_mag_EB_March09.indd 1®1997StarTeck EXTREME ® (STE Series)range-taking cable fittings1998StarTeck EXTREME XP ® (STEX Series)explosion-proof, range-takingcable fittings1982T&B Spin-on fittings1988StarTeck ® (ST Series)cable fittings1990StarTeck XP ® (STX Series)explosion-proof cable fittings2000BondStar TM3-position, grounding locknutSTE050-DATAfor data teck cable applications2/27/09 10:36:36 AMwww. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 5

INDUSTRY NEWSWAGO launches Innovation in Automation 2009 ToursThis year, WAGO Corp.’s Innovation in Automation Tour (IIAT) will spend40 weeks touring Canada and the States presenting its automation, interconnectand electrical interface product lines.Designed as mobile tradeshows, the IIAT vehicles are equipped with productpanels and pick-up-and-play displays featuring the company’s latest products.Visits are managed by WAGO product specialists to address specific applicationneeds and offer interactive demos, free product samples and literature.Visit EB’s Calendar page online at www.ebmag.com to learn more.REGISTER NOW!For NETcommPrairies 2009NAED upgrades EPEC ProgramThe National Association of Electrical Distributors(NAED) announced a series of upgrades toits Electrical Products Education Course. EPECintegrates the full range of products a distributorsells with a unique systems approach. It not onlyprovides information about individual productsand their applications, but shows how each isinterrelated with other products in electrical systems.Although EPEC is a self-study course, itprovides the added benefit of ongoing personalfeedback from industry experts as students proceedthrough the modules.Upgrades to the Bronze level are complete, andSilver and Gold updates will follow in Spring andSummer. Improvements include:• New products and technologies, suchas LEDs, CFLs and personal protectiveequipment.• Content updated to NEC 2008 and theaddition of CE Code references.• Increased emphasis on add-on salesin each chapter.• Streamlined modules for faster completion.• Capstone project added for each level.New resources are also available, including updatedEPEC Web pages (www.naed.org/EPEC) and anonline student glossary. A bridge module is availablefor current students interested in transitioning to thenew EPEC program. Members with previous unusedEPEC Bronze modules may trade up and save 50% onnew modules. The Bronze trade-up offer expires March31. E-mail customerservice@naed.org for full details.IEEE approves guide for specsof high-voltage circuit breakersIEEE has approved a new power switchgear standard,IEEE C37.12, “Guide for Specifications ofHigh-Voltage Circuit Breakers (over 1000 Volts)”.The specs in this new standard apply to all indoorand outdoor types of AC high-voltage circuit breakersrated above 1000 volts.IEEE has also approved IEEE C37.04b, “IEEEStandard for Rating Structure for AC High-VoltageCircuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical CurrentBasis - Amendment to Change the Description ofTransient Recovery Voltage for Harmonization withIEC 62271-100”.It has also approved a revision of IEEE C37.13,“Standard for Low-Voltage AC Power Circuit BreakersUsed in Enclosures”, to modify all dimensionalinformation to provide metric dimensions to gainglobal acceptance of this standard.The group has revised IEEE C37.27, “ApplicationGuide for Low-Voltage AC Power Circuit BreakersApplied with Separately Mounted Current-LimitingFuses”. Previously titled “Low-Voltage AC Non-integrallyFused Power Circuit Breakers (Using SeparatelyMounted Current-Limiting Fuses)”, the new standardalso slightly revises the scope of the document.Finally, IEEE has approved work to begin on a newstandard amendment, PC37.13.1a, “IEEE Standardfor Definite Purpose Switching Devices for Use inMetal-Enclosed Low-Voltage Power Circuit BreakerSwitchgear - Amendment: Revise Short-Circuit Ratingand Test Requirement”. This amendment will reviseshort-circuit rating clause 5.5 and add tests requirementsto short-circuit tests clause 8.1.8.CLB Media, one of Canada’s leadingbusiness-to-business publishers andevent producers, is pleased to presentthe NETcomm Prairies 2009 Conferencein Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.NETcomm combines a trade show-like forumwith a series of educational seminars and technicalworkshops related to the design, installation andmaintenance of communications infrastructureand related components.SPONSORSIf you are involved in purchasing, designing,installing, integrating or maintainingcommunications infrastructure, then you don’twant to miss NETcomm Prairies 2009. It’s agreat opportunity to meet with valued suppliers,see what’s new in the market, gain valuableinformation and network with industry peers.APRIL 21-22, 2009AT THE HISTORIC DOWNTOWNDELTA BESSBOROUGH, SASKATOON, SASK.FOR MORE INFORMATION and to registerfor NETcomm Prairies 2009, please visitwww.netcommshow.caPRESENTING SPONSOR SILVER SPONSOR BRONZE SPONSOREarly Bird Registration Ends March 16 2009!IEEE launches standards projectsfor shipboard electrical installationsIEEE has begun work on developing six new recommendedpractice standards for shipboard electricalinstallations. They will build upon, and are intendedto be used in conjunction with, IEEE 45, “IEEERecommended Practice for Electrical Installationson Shipboard”.The standards projects will address new shipboardtechnologies and provide a consensus of recommendedpractices for design in marine electricalengineering as applied specifically to ships, shipboardsystems and equipment.The new standards projects are:• IEEE P45.1, Recommended Practice forElectrical Installations on Shipboard - Design• IEEE P45.2, Recommended Practice forElectrical Installations on Shipboard - Controlsand Automation• IEEE P45.3, Recommended Practice forElectrical Installations on Shipboard - SystemsIntegration• IEEE P45.4, Recommended Practice for ElectricalInstallations on Shipboard - Marine Sectorsand Mission Systems• IEEE P45.5, Recommended Practice forElectrical Installations on Shipboard - SafetyConsiderations• IEEE P45.6, Recommended Practice for ElectricalInstallations on Shipboard - Electrical TestingThe standards are being developed by the IEEEWorking Group for Electrical Installations onShipboards, and sponsored by the IEEE IndustryApplications Society’s Petroleum & Chemical IndustryCommittee.NetcommSask_EB_Feb09.indd 12/19/09 9:06:56 AM6 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com

Nexans_EB_Jan09.indd 1EB_Jan09_1-16.indd 1A CLB MEDIA INC. PUBLICATION • JANUARY 2009 • VOLUME 45 • ISSUE 1TnB_earlug_EB_Jan09.indd 1Also in this issue...12/22/08 9:33:25 AM1/5/09 2:59:02 PM1/16/09 1:03:13 PMLETTERSCooper hosts grand opening at Industrial Technology CenterCooper Industries recently officially opened the doors to itsnew Houston, Texas-based technology and training facility for acustomer grand opening celebration. Cooper CEO Kirk Hachigianand his staff greeted the more than 250 people in attendancefor this half-day event, which featured comprehensive tours of thenew facility and an opportunity to discuss training needs withthe company’s executives and representatives of each division.Attendees included a variety of end users, distributors and EPCprofessionals from the electrical, oil and gas and petrochemicalmarket segments.The 35,000-sf Cooper Technology Center features an auditorium,conference room and multiple training rooms. It alsoboasts a full-scale mock refinery, wastewater treatment facilityand electrical distribution grid, which includes over 250 of Cooper’sindustrial offerings, installed as they would appear in anoperational setting.The industrial-focused training facility was designed to helpfacilitate industry-specific education and provide hands-on demonstrationfor an array of company products and solutions.“During this time when budgets are stretched, this facility offers a unique venue for us to provideour customers with the education and training that is vital to their businesses,” said Hachigian. “Italso allows us to partner with distributors, EPC professionals and end users alike to discuss the variousopportunities that exist with emerging technologies and products relating to global infrastructure,energy demands and energy efficiency, and facility safety.”NETA acceptance testing specs2009 now ANSI standardThe American National Standards Institute (ANSI)approved the InterNational Electrical Testing Association’s(NETA’s) Standard for Acceptance TestingSpecifications for Electrical Power Equipment andSystems, 2009 edition (ANSI/NETA ATS-2009).Available for purchase as a bound manual,CD-ROM or electronic download, the ANSI/NETAATS-2009 is used when specifying and performingnecessary tests to ensure that electrical systems andapparatus, not only meet project specifications, butthat the manufacturer of the equipment supplieda product that will perform safely and reliably formany years to come.“Anyone involved in the energization of electricalequipment should consider this document amust-have,” said Al Peterson, president of UtilityService Corp.NETA is an accredited standards developer forANSI, and defines the standards by which electricalequipment is deemed safe and reliable. NETA-certifiedtechnicians conduct the tests that ensure thisequipment meets the association’s stringent specifications.NETA is also a sponsor of the IEEE/NFPAArc Flash Research Project.Next Generation Power and Tomcar join forcesNext Generation Power has partnered with Tomcarto offer heavy-duty, safe, off-road service vehiclesequipped with Next Gen diesel generators, compressorsor combo generator/welder compressors.“Many people who employ their Tomcars as servicevehicles also require auxiliary power,” said Next Genpresident Gino Kennedy. “We simply outfit the vehiclesto customers’ specifications with our trusted generatorsand combination units. Then, they can fill tires, weld orpower lights, tools and other equipment when they’reout in hard-to-reach areas, repairing constructionmachinery or rescuing stranded outdoor enthusiasts.”LEAD FREEWIRE AND CABLEHave seminar, won’t travelI would just like to initially comment that Ithoroughly enjoy all aspects for your periodical,Electrical Business. I look forward to its arrival.I find most of the sections informative andhelpful like the “Code File” at the end. I alsoenjoy the “hunt” for the answers. The contestsare always fun as well. My biggest problem isfinding the time to read them!I just finished reading your article, “Awarenessthe key to staying alive” (EB January 2009). It was informative, andno doubt you had a ton of material to work through. The common ideathat I got from the article was awareness... making all those involved inthe industry aware. I just hope that the powers that be would make allthe seminars more accessible for the entire country.Most of the time they are in the larger Canadian cities. This ofteninvolves travelling, overnight stays, meals, etc. This eliminates the majorityof small businesses. I am not suggesting that they travel to everycommunity in the country, but I suggest that they cover more territorythan they do now. Hopefully, this will allow more people to attend withsmaller expense amounts and travel.For instance, I would like to attend something on CSA Z462, but itwould involve the cost of travel, accommodations, etc. The ElectricalSafety Authority (ESA) offers some things in our community, but notto the extent of the larger centres. Generally, all the seminars that I haveattended are received well, so I think that other seminars would also bereceived well... especially when the message is important and/or part ofCSA or ESA.Laurie John HaytonDigital Engineering Inc.Thunder Bay, Ont.Must continue to get the word outI recently received a copy of your January 2009 publication, and read theelectrical safety round table article. Appreciate you leveraging this topicin your magazine, as we need to get the word out on Z462 and how itcan help employers and employees to energized electrical safer.I am the first past vice-chair of CSA Z462. With my current businesspartner, John Hodson, I created a voluntary Arc Flash Hazard Committeein Western Canada back in 2004-2005—before CSA revealed it hadsigned an MOU with NFPA and had selected 70E as the first standardto harmonize. I am still an Associate Member and Executive Committeemember on Z462.In 2007 I left my employer to form ESPS, an independent engineeringcompany that consults in electrical safety. Please visit www.esps.ca,where we are trying to create a free resource for Canada; there are toolsfor employers and employees to better understand electrical safety andCSA Z462.Terry Becker, P.Eng.ESPS Electrical Safety Program Solutions Inc.Calgary, Alta.PM # 40063602 PAP registration # 10774Electrical safetyonly happens with awarenessEngineering technology can minimizearc flash hazard (Page 12)Learn to install—and especiallysell—photovoltaics (Page 14)Getting shoppers, and turning theminto buyers (Page 20)An exclusiveElectrical BusinessDiscussion!Northern Cables Inc.The armoured cable specialistsCanadian manufacturer specializing in AC90, ACWU90, TECK90, MCTHHN, ACTHH, HCFP.O. Box 1564, 50 California Avenue, Brockville, Ontario K6V 6E6Phone: 613-345-1594 • Fax: 613-345-3147 • Toll Free: 1-888-524-5050www.northerncables.comNorthernCables_EB_March09.indd 13/16/09 4:40:05 PMwww. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 7

INDUSTRY NEWSPERSONALITIESBuilding permits January 2009Contractors took out $4.4 billion in building permits inJanuary, StatsCan reports, down 4.6% from December.Increases in both institutional and commercial permitswere not enough to offset the decreases in the value ofresidential intentions in five provinces.In the residential sector, the value of permits fell 17.5%to $2.2 billion, with declines in both multi- and singlefamilypermits.The value of permits in the non-residential sectorincreased 12.2% to $2.3 billion, due mainly to higherconstruction intentions for institutional and commercialpermits in Ontario. The total value of intentions fell inevery province except Ontario, Saskatchewan and PrinceEdward Island.Intentions down in residential sectorMunicipalities issued $696-million worth of permits formulti-family dwellings in January, down 36.2% fromDecember. Ontario accounted for most of the declineat the national level, although seven provinces reported adecrease. Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia and British Columbiawere the only provinces showing increases.The value of single-family permits decreased 4.3% to$1.5 billion. Alberta, Ontario, Newfoundland & Labradorand Nova Scotia accounted for January’s drop.Municipalities approved 11,065 new dwellings in January,down 19.4%. This was mainly due to a 33% decreasein multi-family units to 5180. The number of singlefamilyunits approved declined 1.9% to 5885 units.Some increases in non-residential sectorStrong growth in the values of both institutional and commercialpermits in Ontario was the main factor behindJanuary’s increase in the non-residential sector. Permitsin the institutional component increased by 64.2% to$833 million, largely the result of higher constructionintentions for medical buildings in Ontario.In the commercial component, the value of permitsincreased 12.4% to $1.2 billion. The increase resultedmostly from higher construction intentions for storageand recreational buildings in Ontario.The value of industrial permits remained volatile andfell 50.7% to $207 million, following a 30.7% increasein December. January’s decline was due mostly to lowerconstruction intentions for manufacturing buildings inQuebec and Ontario.Permits down in most provincesThe value of building permits fell in seven provincesin January. The most significant declines occurred inQuebec and Alberta (-19.8% to $960 million and -22.4%to $585 million, respectively). In both, the decrease wasdue to lower construction intentions in the residentialand non-residential sectors.Ontario reported a 13.1% increase to $2 billion. Thiswas a result of higher construction intentions in institutionaland commercial buildings, which more than offseta decrease in the value of residential permits.Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island also reportedan increase as a result of gains in both residential andnon-residential sectors.Large decreases in Toronto and MontrealThe total value of permits was down in 19 of the 34census metropolitan areas. Permit values declined 12.9%in Toronto, as lower construction intentions in the multifamilycomponent more than offset increases in thenon-residential sector and single-family permits.In Montreal, permit values fell 19.7% as a result ofdecreases in both residential and non-residential sectors.In contrast, Barrie and Oshawa posted the largestincreases, mainly the result of higher construction intentionsin the institutional component.Judge finds violations of Pass & Seymour/Legrand’s GFCI patent rightsPass & Seymour/Legrand (P&S) announced that theU.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) issued afinal decision, finding that a number of China-basedmanufacturers of ground fault circuit interrupters(GFCIs) and their American distributors have violatedP&S’s patent rights.The ITC affirmed an earlier decision by AdministrativeLaw Judge Carl C. Charneski finding P&S’s patentsvalid and enforceable. The ITC also found that GFCIsmanufactured by General Protecht Group, Shanghai ELEManufacturing, Shanghai Meihao Electric and WenzhouTrimone Science and Technology Electric infringedP&S’s patents.In addition, the ITC issued exclusion orders precludingimportation of infringing GFCIs made by General ProtechtGroup, Shanghai ELE Manufacturing, Shanghai MeihaoElectric and Wenzhou Trimone Science and TechnologyElectric, and cease and desist orders precluding U.S. distributorsCheetah USA Corp. (Sandy, Utah), ColacinoElectric Supply Inc. (Newark, N.Y.), The Designer’s EdgeInc. (Bellevue, Wash.), Nicor Inc. (Albuquerque, N.M.)and Orbit Industries Inc. (Los Angeles, Calif.) from sellinginfringing GFCIs in the United States.“Today’s decision will enable P&S to fend off unfaircompetition, maintain market share and preserve highendR&D jobs and the innovation those workers create,in a product category the company created almost 40years ago,” said Pat Davin, vice-president and generalmanager of Pass & Seymour/Legrand, adding, “Theseorders will ensure that our patents and quality productsmaintain their rightful presence in the marketplace.”P&S intends to work with U.S. Customs to enforcethe exclusion orders to preclude the importation ofinfringing GFCIs. The company also intends to vigorouslyenforce the cease and desist orders against thedistributors named in the investigation and contact otherdistributors to cease sales of infringing GFCIs. P&S hasa related suit pending in U.S. District Court for theNorthern District of New York, seeking damages.Universal Lighting Technologies has expanded in Canada withnew staff and a new office in Montreal, Que., to manage the company’snationwide sales efforts. Stacy Chevrette joins as nationalinside sales coordinator. He’s a member of the Illuminating EngineeringSociety (IES) and an instructor at Sherbrooke University,and previously worked at Luxo Lighting as a sales manager. He wasrecently awarded first prize for technical and technological innovationsby IES’ Montreal Chapter. Chevrette will work alongsideChristiane de Cesare, who joined Universal in May 2008. TheMontreal office is located at 400 St. Martin Boulevard West, Suite200, Office 11, Laval. Call (450) 668-7881 or e-mail schevrette@unvlt.com.FLIR Systems Ltd. has added JFC Solutions (Burnaby, B.C.)as a manufacturing agent for FLIR infrared cameras and ExtechInstruments (acquired in 2007) for electrical/MRO distributionfrom Ontario to British Columbia. FLIR acquired Extech in 2007.JFC Solutions has been added to support FLIR’s national distributionpartners: EECOL Electric, Acklands Grainger (T&M) andWesco Distribution. Visit FLIR at www.flir.ca or e-mail sales@jfcsolutions.ca.Clockwise from top: Shelley, Taiand Tony Wang.WAC Lighting is celebrating its25th anniversary this year. Itsroots date back to 1984 whenWAC Lighting was founded byTony Wang and his wife, Tai, inForest Hills, N.Y. Back then, thefirm marketed portable lamps ata variety of trade shows acrossthe States. As its line evolved,WAC began introducing trackfixtures and recessed trims andhousings, gradually shifting intothe task lighting segment of theindustry, too.The U.S. division of Zumtobel Lighting Inc. welcomed TimO’Brien as its new president. Before joining Zumtobel, O’Brienheld several senior management positions with other lighting industryplayers, such as Osram Sylvania, GE and, most recently, CooperLighting. While at Cooper, Tim spent time as the vice-presidentof marketing and product development, and as vice-president andgeneral manager of the Architectural Products and Controls BusinessUnit. Wolfgang Egger will focus his attention on sales and marketingin an effort to gain a much stronger U.S. market position.IT'S FREE AND SIMPLE.Simply send us the followinginformation and we’ll uploadit to EB Careers Online:Having trouble findingthe right people?Look no further...Make EBMag.com your HR Partner!• Company name and logo• Job title and description• Geographic location of job• Contact information• Expiration date (if any)E-mail acapkun@clbmedia.ca with all the details to get started.Help us help you! Send us your career opportunities today.Pamensky_EB_June07.indd 18 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com6/18/07 11:34:52 AM

A low-cost passive filter bank beatsBy Gary Gilbert, P.Eng.Despite increasing demands on power systems, consumersexpect clean, reliable power. In an ideal power system,energy is supplied at a single and constant frequency,and at a specified voltage level of constant magnitude. Theseconditions are rarely met, unfortunately, due to non-linearloads that affect the power quality (IEEE 519, “RecommendedPractices and Requirements for Harmonic Control in ElectricPower Systems”). Every power system with non-linear loadshas the potential of producing harmonics, which can causedistortions in the power supply and, subsequently, produceharmful results for the power producer and consumer alike.The long-term problems associated with harmonics caninclude:• Electromagnetic effects: hysterisis and eddy current losses;skin effect; inductive interference; interference with theoperation of control, protection, electronics and communications,and equipment.• Premature dielectric degradation.• High frequency effects.• Increase in peak voltage.• Insulation failure due to higher voltage.• Increased copper losses and heating, reduced efficiency.The instantaneous effects of harmonics can include:• Contributes to voltage drops on weak systems.• Results in false measurements.• Resonance conditions can cause failures, malfunctions orforce downgraded operation.• SCR-controlled equipment can have notching and, whenthese result in a zero voltage crossing, control equipmentcan be affected.Significant research conducted in the reduction and eliminationof the harmonics produced by non-linear type loads,resulting in several different types of harmonic eliminationmethods, including the subject of this paper: a passive filterbank. Here, I’ll look at how distribution systems can beaffected by harmonics, discussing how they were identifiedand the mitigation techniques that will be implemented basedon IEEE 519.Problem formulation for harmonicanalysis in industrial systemsHarmonic studies play an important role in the analysis ofpower distribution systems. They determine how the harmonicsare created, and how to reduce or possibly eliminatethem from the power signal. The two most common methodsused in these studies employ time and frequency domainanalyses. With time domain, Fourier analysis allows a distortedwaveform to be broken down into a series of harmoniccomponents. In the frequency domain, however, the use offrequency scans can determine the harmonic components.Once the harmonic components are established, it is necessaryto determine whether they are within acceptable levels accordingto IEEE 519.The following summarizes the necessary steps normallyrequired for a harmonic study in the industrialenvironment:1. Prepare system one-line diagram.2. Gather equipment data and rating.3. Obtain from the utility company the relevant dataand requirements at the point of common coupling(PCC). These must include:• Minimum and maximum fault levels or, preferably,system impedances as a function of frequency fordifferent system conditions.• Permissible limits on harmonics including distortionfactors and IT factor. (The criteria and limits varyconsiderably from country to country. Typical valuesfor different voltage levels are given in IEEE 519).4. Carry out harmonic analysis for the base systemconfiguration by calculating the system impedancesat the harmonic source bus bars as well as all shuntcapacitor locations.5. Compute harmonic voltage distortion factors and ITvalue at the PCC by computer simulation with theinformation obtained in the previous steps.6. Examine the results and, eventually, go back to Step 1or 4, depending on whether the network data or onlythe parameters of the analysis need to be modified.7. Compare the composite (fundamental plus harmonic)loading requirements of shunt capacitor banks withthe maximum rating permitted.To improve on the model obtained from the previous steps,it is necessary to obtain real-time harmonic values for thedesign model itself. Harmonic analysis is required whendevices that generate harmonics (i.e. rectifiers, arc furnaces,AC/DC drives, etc.) are present or anticipated to be added tothe power system. Frequent power system component failuremay also justify the undertaking of harmonic studies. Anotherimportant reason may be to arrive at harmonic filter specs.The response of an electric power system to harmonics canbe studied by any of the following techniques:a) Hand calculations. Manual calculations are restrictedto small-sized networks, as they are not only tedious,but prone to error.b) Transient Network Analyzer (TNA). TNA is alsorestricted to rather small network sizes because it isgenerally found to be expensive and time consuming.c) Field measurements. Harmonic measurements areoften used to determine the level of harmonic pollutionin the power system. It is widely recognized,however, that undertaking harmonic measurementsin a systematic fashion can be quite expensive andtime consuming. Harmonic measurements, althoughquite useful in many cases, can be of limited validitybecause they reflect only the system topology atwhich they have been taken. Moreover, measurementscan be incorrect due to inaccuracies in the measuringinstruments, or poor use of those instruments. Fieldmeasurements are, however, used effectively to validateand refine system modelling for digital simulations.d) Digital simulation. Digital computer simulation isthe most convenient and, perhaps, more economicalway of tackling the problem of harmonic analysis.Sophisticated computer programs feature an arrayof system component models. Computer simulationsare centred on system-wide approaches utilizingthe notions of system impedance and/or admittancematrices, backed by elegant and powerful numericalcalculation techniques.My study employs a computer software package capable ofsimulating the distribution systems and the characteristics ofthe harmonics associated with the harmonic-generating devicediscussed above (Figure 1).FIGURE 1The model produced requires real-time data from the distributionsystem to ensure the findings are as accurate aspossible. This data can be obtained by utilizing meters thatcomply to IEC 61000-4-7 (harmonics) to determine theactual harmonics within the system. This meter should be ableto capture and summarize the power quality of the system andcommunicate through SCADA-type systems to allow energymanagement remotely. This will allow for a detailed analysisof the power quality of the distribution system.In addition, the harmonic impedance of a network mustbe uncovered. This is done by injecting a random noise andmeasuring the resultant voltage. The harmonic impedance isNFLD: (709) 753-6685NS & PEI: (902) 450-5155NB: (506) 862-1515Quebec: (514) 333-8392Ontario: (514) 333-8392Manitoba: (204) 694-0000Saskatoon, SK: (306) 244-7272Regina,SK: (306)771-2500Alberta: (800) 263-2684BC: (604) 882-8488USA: (514) 333-839210 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com

ack harmonicsthe ratio of harmonic voltage to the injected current. Thisinformation is then transposed to the computer model ofthe distribution system for increased accuracy, allowing formore accurate mitigation technique selection.The meters are typically connected to current transformers(CTs) that are typically a toroidally wound transformer withferromagnetic core. The CT itself should measure up to the50th harmonic without distortion. In addition to CTs, a voltagetransformer (VT) is also required. VTs can be connected directlyto low-voltage distribution circuits (up to 12 kV), otherwisecascaded transformers or voltage dividers are required at highervoltages. This information can then be collected by the SCADAsystem to produce an RMS and harmonic representation of thepower within the distribution system (Figure 2).FIGURE 2Current harmonic spectrum from SCADAIn general, the Total RMS value of a waveform—based onits harmonic components—may be as follows:harmonic components and, once the components of the filterhave been calculated, it is placed at node number one andthe harmonic analysis carried out. The analysis must be carriedout at each new node location because the passive filteralters the overall system impedance at the new location, andthis change in the system’s impedance may cause resonanceproblems. Therefore, this step is repeated at each node untilthere are no major differences in the harmonic levels at nodesor sub-nodes, nor any new harmonic problems due to parallelor series resonance.Passive filter resultsWith the passive filter bank placement method, it was necessaryto determine where it could be placed within thedistribution system. The next step is to run a harmonicanalysis without any compensation to determine whetherthe harmonic content is excessively high according to IEEE519. In this case, the filter bank could be placed at eitherSub 200 or at the PCC. The passive filter could be placedthroughout the vessel and still reduce the overall harmoniccontent to acceptable levels. This allows the flexibility to findthe physical location that will allow the installation of thepassive filter and still reduce the harmonic distortion. Figure3 shows the effects of the filter bank at Sub 200, which waswithin 5% of the results from the PCC.FIGURE 3StarTeck ®Teck Cable FittingsStainless steel fittings nowavailable up to 2-inch hub sizewww.tnb-canada.comThe StarTeck ® (ST) series range of fittingsfor teck and ACWU cable has recentlybeen expanded to include stainlesssteel fittings in 1-1/4 to 2-inch hub sizes.Designed for end-users by end-users,StarTeck teck cable fittings accommodatea broad range of cables, minimizingthe possibility of mismatched cablesand fittings in the field.Available in aluminum, steel, stainlesssteel and PVC-coated aluminum andsteel, StarTeck fittings are ideally suitedfor use in demanding environments.For complete product details, consult the“What’s New” section of our web site.Employing a passive filter bank to fight harmonicsA passive filter bank was selected due its lower cost and relativesize. Filter placement is an important issue in the reductionof harmonics because of the potential problems that can becreated with the introduction of the filter itself, includingparallel or series resonance. Therefore, it is important thatthe filter placement be thoroughly simulated before actuallyphysically placing it within the distribution system.Previously, filter placement had been restricted to thePCC, but I shift from this concept to an empirically determinedmethod that allows the harmonic filter to be placedwhere the physical limitations of the system under studyallow. In the case of the distribution system in Figure 1, theideal PCC is at NS6 or NS7 in accordance with IEEE 519;however, this position was varied to simulate the effects ofthe passive filter.The passive filter bank was tuned to the harmonic levelthat had been found to be problematic. The passive filterplacement can be empirically determined through an exhaustivesearch pattern in the topology of the distribution systemto determine the reduction in harmonic content throughoutthe entire system when the filter is placed at each node inthe topology. By using every node in the topology, the resultswill show that there are several locations throughout thedistribution where the filter can be physically placed andstill reduce the harmonic distortion. However, the numberof nodes in the search pattern can be reduced by only usingnodes where the filter can be physically placed. It is to thisend that this filter placement scheme was developed.So the harmonic analysis determines which componentsneed to be reduced to lower the THD (total harmonic distortion)and meet the limits of IEEE 519. Once a specificharmonic component has been identified as a potentialproblem, a passive filter or filter bank can be selected. Aftera configuration is selected, the filter is designed to meet therequirements of the system in question. Here, for example,the 5th, 7th ,11th and 13th components were identified asproblems due to the type of drives used in this system—namely, 6 and 18 pulse drives.The filter is tuned to a value of slightly below that of theseCurrent harmonic spectrum with passive filter bankThe results show how the passive filter bank reduces theunwanted harmonics. The RMS values of 6.04 amps are justover 10% of the fundamental current value. As any industrialsite expands towards more non-linear loading, the harmoniccurrent and voltage values grow to levels where system reliabilityis at risk.The results of the filter placement method indicate thepossibility of an alternate way of selecting a location for thefilter. Filter placement has been traditionally restricted tothe PCC which, while a valid location, does not take intoaccount other factors, such as impedance. With the approachdescribed above, other good filter placement locations werediscovered. This allows the flexibility to empirically determinethe location where the filter could be physically realized.References• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,“Recommended Practices and Requirements forHarmonic Control in Electric Power Systems,” IEEE519, IEEE Press, New York, 1992.• B.Thiem, W.Frankenburg, and M. Grotzbach,“Assessment of Line Current Harmonics Emittedby High Power AC/DC Converters”, 5th Instituteof Electrical and Electronics Engineers ConferenceProceedings, Atlanta, Ga., 1992, pp 659-663.Gary Gilbert, P.Eng, is a senior engineer with specialty chemicalsplayer, Lanxess, where he is responsible for a high-voltage systemcomprising a distribution system of almost 60 transformers andan overall plant running capacity of over 100MVA at 230kV. Prior toLanxess, he spent nearly nine years at the Electrical Safety Authority(ESA) as a code engineer, where he developed and interpreted theOntario Electrical Safety Code. He completed his Masters in ElectricalEngineering at the Royal Military College of Canada and is a memberof IEEE, Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) and the InternationalAssociation of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI).Did you know...www.tnb-canada.commonthly… that Thomas & Betts makes shipmentsof 3 or 5 working days on our mostfrequently ordered aluminum and steelcable tray products?3 daysAluminum cable tray and fittings• Ladder tray – any width, any rung spacing• Choice of two profiles and three siderail heights• Available in two lengths• Complete range of fittings for the aboveChannel Tray• 4-inch aluminum ventilated channel5 daysSteel cable tray and fittings (HDG)• Ladder tray – choice of 4 widths• 12-inch rung spacing, 3m lengths• Wide choice of fittingsContact Cable Tray Customer Service at1-888-664-5666 for complete details.TnB_vert_EB_March09.indd 1www. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 112/27/09 10:20:30 AM

CALENDAR2009 Canadian Electrical Code EssentialsCanadian Standards Association (CSA)From March 23 to May 7Various dates/locations across CanadaVisit learningcentre.csa.ca and click ElectricalNetworking LuncheonOntario Energy Network (OEN)March 24Toronto, Ont.Visit www.ontarioenergynetwork.orgLe Salon MCEECMEQ, CMMTQ, CIPH, CETAFApril 8-9Montreal, Que.Visit www.mecanexclimatex.caWILL BETHERE!WILL BETHERE!Electrical Industry ConferenceOntario Electrical League (OEL)April 15-18Kingston, Ont.Visit www.oel.orgElectrical Safety and Reliability ConferenceProfessional Electrical Apparatus RecyclersLeague (PEARL)April 18-20Atlanta, Ga.Visit www.pearl1.orgHealth & Safety CanadaIndustrial Accident and PreventionAssociation (IAPA)April 20-22Toronto, Ont.Visit www.iapa.caWILL BETHERE!Prairies 2009NETcomm Prairies 2009 ConferenceApril 21-22Saskatoon, Sask.Visit www.netcommshow.caTraining WorkshopEnergy Efficiency Contractors’ Network (EECN)(Members include Electrical ContractorsAssociation of Ontario [ECAO] and OntarioElectrical League [OEL])April 30, Kingston, Ont.May 12, Toronto, Ont.WILL BETHERE!Visit www.eecn.caLightfairMay 5-7New York, N.Y.Visit www.lightfair.comWILL BETHERE!WILL BETHERE!Annual ConferenceSupply & Distribution Council (S&D),Electro-Federation Canada (EFC)May 27-30St. John’s, Nfld.Visit www.electrofed.comNETcomm Québec 2009 ConferenceJune 10-11Montreal, Que.Visit www.netcommshow.caWILL BETHERE!WILL BETHERE!Annual General MeetingIndependent Electrical Distributors (IED)June 8-10Quebec City, Que.Visit www.ied.caWILL BETHERE!Convention and Exposition:“Gateway to Innovation”Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA)June 14-16St. Louis, Mo.Visit www.easa.comMid-Canada Electrical ShowcaseManitoba Electrical LeagueJune 17-18Winnipeg, Man.Visit www.meleague.netAnnual ConferenceElectrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO)June 24-27Halifax, N.S.WILL BETHERE!Visit www.ecao.org“Productivity Through Protection” Training TourCooper BussmannJuly 27, Toronto, Ont.TBA, Calgary, Alta.TBA, Edmonton, Alta.September 7, Vancouver, B.C.WILL BETHERE!Visit www.cooperbussmanntrainingservices.com/PTPTOURAtlantic 2009NETcomm Atlantic 2009 ConferenceSeptember 2009Halifax, N.S.Visit www.netcommshow.caWILL BETHERE!WorldSkills Calgary 2009September 1-7(Actual competition September 2-5)Calgary, Alta.Visit www.worldskills2009.comNECA ShowNational Electrical ContractorsAssociation (NECA)September 12-15Seattle, Wash.Visit www.necaconvention.orgWILL BETHERE!WILL BETHERE!1-877-416-3748 meritcanada.caVISITCEBMag.comand click Calendar to see anextensive list of upcoming events.Meritt_EB_Jan09.indd 112 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com12/11/08 4:23:25 PM

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mission-criticalProtecting electronicsin the industrial environmentBy Paul HaakeToday’s engineers are designing increasingly sophisticated control systems involving moreelectronic equipment—much of it adopted from non-industrial applications, and almostall of it more sensitive to electrical disturbances than the equipment being replaced.When mixed with the inherently poor power environment of an industrial facility and agingpower generation and distribution facilities—both inside and outside of the plant—a varietyof power- and electrical noise-based problems inevitably result.Understanding these problems, as well as some of their causes and solutions, can help ensurethe design of reliable and cost-effective mission-critical electronic systems.Crash of mission-critical elements = lost profitThe first task in protecting mission-critical elements is identifying them. While each systemis unique, they are usually easily recognized. Basically, they’re all the items that, when theyfail, cause customer displeasure, and/or increased labour/material costs.Typically, PLCs (programmable logic controllers), industrial computers and electronicmotor speed controls serving in the control loop of a manufacturing process are the firstcomponents put on the list. But this list is far from complete: sensors, datacom equipment,actuators and even production planning systems must be included. As you evaluate each item,remember: it is considered mission-critical when its downtime causes lost profit.Once this list is complete, determine the necessary level of protection, of which there arethree. The first level provides defence against the instantaneous destruction of critical equipment.The second provides additional protection against long-term equipment degradation(a condition often seen in semiconductor devices). The third and most important level formost industrial systems adds defence against disruption—those unexplained soft failures,system lock-ups and resets for which no specific cause can be identified.As more devices containing volatile memory find their way onto the production floor,guarding against such disruptive events becomes critical for ensuring that costly interruptionsdo not occur.When satisfied customers and controlled costs are of primary importance, there is little questionthat systems must be protected to the third and highest level. This requires examining andappropriately protecting each and every power and data I/O (input/output) lines against likelyhazards. Achieving this level of protection usually requires the use of industrial-grade components,along with a combination of devices like surge protectors, power conditioners, power-conditionedUPSs (uninterruptible power supplies), as well as appropriate grounding techniques.Powerline issues‘Outside’ and ‘inside’ eventsPowerline problems can originate both ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ the facility. Outside problemsinclude inclement weather that produces lightning-induced transients or powerline outagesdue to high winds or ice. Problems may also come from routine utility operations, such ascapacitor switching or clearing line faults.While outside events are the most obvious and spectacular, it is estimated that up to 80% of powerproblems in industrial facilities originate on the customer’s side of the meter. Inside problems arecaused by a variety of factors, including motors stopping and starting, welding equipment, electronicmotor speed controls, poor grounding, as well as some problems in common with the utility, like faultclearing and capacitor switching. The result of these events show themselves in many ways, includingvoltage interruptions, sags, and the less obvious—but more disruptive—voltage transients.Power interruptionAmong the most noticeable power quality problems is a power interruption. While relatively infrequentin most locations, the effect can be dramatic and obvious, as everything grinds to a halt.Solutions to combat power interruptions include alternate power feeds to the facility,local backup generating capability (diesel- or gas-powered generators) and the addition ofUPSs on selected equipment. While alternate power feeds and local power generation maynot be practical for every facility, the addition of UPSs—particularly to software controlleddevices—is an important component in a total protection strategy.14 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com

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When properly selected, the UPS will ensure the attacheddevices are kept active during an outage. With proper communicationsinterface software, these devices can also smoothly andautomatically shut down all running software applications and theoperating system to ensure a clean restart of the process.Voltage sagsVoltage sags and, to a lesser extent, voltage swells are reported to bethe most measured powerline problem. A study of one site estimatedthat up to 62 voltage sags down to a limit of 80% of nominal voltage,and an additional 17 sags down to a limit of 50% of nominalvoltage, occurred yearly at that site. In another study of a largeindustrial facility, more than 500 sags of various levels were recordedat the input to key control equipment over a three and half-monthperiod. In the same study, only about 100 such sags were recordedduring that period on the input power line to the facility. Both ofthese studies also report that individual pieces of control equipmentwere affected quite differently by the recorded voltage sags.As with power interruption, solutions can be applied bothlocally and plant wide. Plant-wide solutions include layout ofpower distribution to minimize the number of sags induced oncritical equipment from internal causes, such as starting motorsand fault clearing. 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Because these localdevices can compensate for sags generated both inside and outsideof the facility, using them is usually more reliable and lessexpensive than attempting a plant-wide solution.At least three basic types of devices providing local sag protectionare available. These include devices that: store energy ina transformer (constant voltage transformer [CVT]); use boostwindings to raise voltages during sags (tap switching transformer);and supply energy from batteries during sags (UPSs). There arealso devices that use some combination of these three technologiesto combat sags.While each of these solutions has its advantages and disadvantages,some are better suited than others to today’s electroniccontrol systems. In the past, the most common device appliedto control sags was the CVT. This device, which also typicallyprovided the step-down voltage function, was an excellent choicewhen most control devices used linear power supplies, most sagswere not too severe, the attached control system ‘crashed’ well, andthe CVT was presented with a relatively constant load.FREE INFRARED WEBINARS!Visit flir.ca for the full schedule of FREE online seminars:• 12 Things to Know Before Buying an Infrared Camera• Thermography in Utility Applications • Fugitive Emissions & Thermal ImagingToday, however, control systems have changed;loads are more typically switch mode power supplies(SMPS) and sags (particularly with aging infrastructure)are likely to become more severe. In addition,control systems are often no longer based on proprietarysoftware that ‘crashes’ well but on commerciallyavailable operating systems that need to be properlyshut down to start up again smoothly. Power systemload requirements also change more often as controlschemes are frequently updated with the latest technologyto gain additional performance from existingtooling and equipment.While changes have been made in many CVTs toadapt to this new technology, the best solution is onethat was specifically designed to support SMPS and hasmore energy to ride through severe sags than a typicalCVT. Such a device is a UPS with integral isolation transformerthat provides highly robust regulation, isolationand backup. When an isolation transformer already existsin the power path near the load, a UPS with double conversiontopology can also serve quite effectively.TransientsBy their very nature, transient voltages on powerlines—below the level of those that cause massive destruction—aredifficult to measure directly. Among the mostdifficult to measure are the high-speed ones that are themost likely to cause disruption of electronic equipment.To further complicate the situation, transients oftenoccur randomly; and special power quality monitoringequipment is usually required to capture the high-speedimpulse and oscillatory events that can cause sensitiveelectronic equipment to be disrupted. While often notdiscussed or considered, this ‘least-measured’ power qualityevent can be a major contributor to those randomerrors and lock-ups that occur in a control system.As with many industrial power quality issues, most ofthe high-speed transients that cause system disruptionsare not supplied through the power utility but are generatedinside. This conclusion can be reached not only byobservation, but through examination of the typical transient’shigh-frequency content and its interaction with theintrinsic impedance of power distribution lines. The oneobvious exception is lightning, which is clearly a naturaland external event. Typical inside causes of transient eventsinclude switching devices, such as contactors, motor starters,compressors, variable speed drives and the switchingof capacitor banks for power factor correction.It is important to note that while these transientsare clearly a threat to a mission-critical system’s overallreliability, not every transient will cause a system disruption.The transient’s frequency, edge speed, modein which it appears to the equipment, and location inthe affected equipment’s clock or processing cycle alldetermine its immediate effect.Almost all transient events are ignored by electronicequipment; if they weren’t, it would be almost impossibleto keep a computer running. In mission-criticalapplications, however, the goal is to push disruptions asclose to zero as is possible, and the reduction or eliminationof these transients is critical in achieving this result.In these applications, reducing the amplitude and edgespeed of all transients becomes paramount in achievingthe desired system reliability.To better understand the specific methods that maybe used to control the amplitude and edge speed oftransient voltages, it is useful to review how transientnoise appears to electronic equipment.Transients are said to be Normal Mode (NM) noisewhen they appear between the line (hot or phase) andneutral conductors supplying the equipment. Whilesomewhat troublesome, noise appearing in this modecan often be controlled by a combination of transientvoltage surge suppressor (TVSS) devices and filters.Typically, individual pieces of equipment often makesome provision for controlling this noise mode withinthe control equipment itself.The far more difficult noise mode to control isCommon Mode (CM). In this situation, there is noisebetween the neutral and ground lines connected to theequipment. While the neutral and common are bondedeither at the service entrance or at an intermediate transformer,noise in this mode is quite common and verydisruptive. CM noise typically occurs when current is“dumped” into the ground lead by other equipment;Flir_EB_Feb09.indd 116 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com2/13/09 1:19:32 PM

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Kwik-Fit eliminates the need forseparate fittings by providing a BUILT-IN setscrewfitting for quick and easy installation.• Kwik-Fit line features E-Z Pull ® interiorcoating to save you wire pulling time.• CSA certified and meets ANSI standards.Contact Columbia-MBFfor your FREEKwik Calculator CD atsupport@cmbf.com(supplies are limited)Call us at (866) 632-0180 or visitColumbia-MBF at www.alliedeg.com• Columbia-MBF • Eastern Wire + Conduit • Power-Strut ® Framing Systems• Cope ® Cable Tray© 2009 Columbia-MBF, & Tyco InternationalE-Z Pull, Kwik-Fit, Columbia-MBF, Eastern Wire + Conduit, Power-Strut, Cope, andTyco are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tyco International and/or its affiliates inCanada, the United States and in other countries.All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective owners.TMinput/output filters for suppressing high frequency line noiseare a typical cause, as are protective devices such as TVSSs.Power conditioningControlling CM noise usually requires a transformer-basedpower-conditioning device that provides a separately derivedsource of power in which the neutral and ground wire arelocally rebonded.Almost all such commercial power-conditioning devices alsoinclude appropriate components to control any present NMnoise. These devices, which are typically available as traditionalpower conditioners or as power conditioners with battery backup,accomplish the necessary reduction in amplitude and edge speed oftransient noise sources to help ensure that equipment in missioncriticalsystems is not unnecessarily affected by transient events.In addition to installing an appropriate power-conditioningdevice, proper care must be taken in system layout and wiring.In particular, it is critical that the wiring to the power conditionernot be run with the power from the output of thepower conditioner. Running these wires in the same conduitor wiring tray will significantly reduce the benefits providedby installing the power conditioner.It is also important that, whenever possible, all criticaldevices (including sensors) be powered from the same powerconditioner as the controller, and that sensor and peripheralequipment grounds be connected at a common point.Finally, datacom cables should be run in conduit or wiringtrays that do not contain power or, at a minimum, do notcontain unconditioned power.Communication line issuesToday’s typical control system uses communication lines forseveral purposes, such as: control busses (i.e. DeviceNet orProfibus); data lines to peripheral devices (such as humanmachine interfaces [HMIs]); and connections to plant-wideproduction information systems. While not subject to all ofthe problems of power lines, communication lines are oftenmore likely to cause system disruption due to transients. Inaddition, grounded (non-isolated) communication schemes(such as RS232 and RS485) provide an opportunity for anadditional path of disruption known as ground skew.Communication line protectorsAs in power lines, a user must be concerned about destruction,degradation and disruption when addressing communicationline protection. In these lines, minimizing the chance ofdestruction or degradation is best addressed by the use of acommunication line protector (CLP), as the semiconductordevices associated with these lines are not designed to withstandthe high voltages or currents that can be induced frompower lines or other noise sources.CLP selection should be done with care to ensure that theclamping voltage is lower than the point at which damagewill occur, but higher than the maximum voltage that can beapplied to the line for normal communication. In addition,when using systems with the higher transmission speeds nowavailable, care must be taken to ensure that the insertion lossdue to the added capacitance and inductance of the CLP willnot cause unacceptable signal level reductions.The use of external CLPs is often suggested to improvesystem reliability, even when a communication port is internallyprotected by a TVSS against over-voltage. This approachcan lead to improved reliability since a typical CLP will have agrounding lead that can be wired to direct transient noise awayfrom the chassis ground of the control device. Redirecting thistransient noise current will avoid introducing potentially disruptivecommon mode noise into the equipment, a situationthat can occur when the internal TVSS is triggered.For this scheme to have value, however, the external CLPwill be required to activate at a lower voltage level than theinternal protective devices. While properly selecting an externalCLP provides this result, the selection requires investigationinto the internal protection levels for each piece of equipmentto ensure proper coordination.While CLPs can provide protection against system destructionand degradation, they do little to assist in reducingdisruptions from transient voltages that are below the levelof component destruction yet above the disruptive level thatinterferes with routine communication. Protection againstsuch disruption can be addressed in several ways.First, it is critical that system grounding follows goodpractice and meets the equipment manufacturers’ guidelines.With grounded communication schemes in particular, a smallgrounding problem can lead to very inconsistent communication.A second key factor is cable routing, which should be donein a manner to avoid inducing any noise into communicationcables from other sources. To maximize system reliability, donot run communication cables with power cables; and whencrossing power cables, try to do so at right angles.Ground skew issuesAddressing ground skew is the next step in improving communicationreliability. Ground skew problems occur whennoise currents flow in a ground path between two pieces ofequipment connected by more than one ground lead.In grounded communication systems, the primary connectionis the power ground, while the second ground lead isthe shield and/or common lead in the communications cable.When ground currents flow in the power ground, they cause avoltage difference (ground voltage skew) between the two locations,thereby causing a voltage differential to be reflected in thecable. This voltage differential, and the resultant current flow inthe cable, can seriously disrupt the communication path, andpotentially destroy devices not protected by a CLP.Two solutions can eliminate or reduce ground skew-relatedproblems. The first and most expensive (and often most difficultto implement) is full isolation on the communicationport. Such isolation typically requires separate power suppliesbe added at each end of the line, in addition to adding theappropriate isolation device. While commercially available,such devices are relatively expensive and take time to install.A second solution is a ground skew protective device in thepower path. Such a device is available from multiple sources,each with slightly different—and patented—implementations.The device works on the principle of creating a high impedancein the ground path at high frequencies while maintainingno or low impedance at powerline frequencies.By increasing the high-frequency impedance in the groundline, the resulting voltage produced by high-frequency groundcurrents is substantially reduced, thereby reducing the opportunityfor disruption or destruction of the communicationline. To ensure proper protection, one ground skew deviceshould be placed in the power path of each device containinga grounded communication port. Commercially, groundskew devices are typically sold as an internal option to powerconditioners and power-conditioned UPSs.Proper equipment and protection + vigilanceTwo steps are required to provide the highest level of confidencein the reliability of a mission-critical industrial system.First, robust equipment designed to be used in an industrialenvironment must be selected. While this paper discussedtechniques for minimizing the effects of electrical anomalieson the system, items such as working temperature range andmechanical ruggedness are also important for ensuring longtermsystem reliability. Secondly, once the proper equipment isselected, installing it with proper protection solutions on powerand communication ports becomes of paramount importanceto provide a system that is as failure free as possible.When installing equipment with the goal of achieving totalprotection, it is important to protect each and every power andcommunication port in the system and provide a groundingscheme that is in accordance with prevailing codes and manufacturerguidelines. In a well-protected system, each power portshould be protected with a low-impedance, transformer-basedpower conditioner to control both common and normal modenoise. On some power ports, a low-impedance, transformer-basedpower conditioner with batteries (UPS) may be the proper choicefor providing protection against extended sags and outages whensensitive controllers need to be shut down in an orderly fashion.In addition, each communication line should have a CLPinstalled that has the appropriate voltage breakdown level andcontrolled insertion loss for the type of communication portbeing protected. When grounded communication lines areinvolved, either ground skew protection devices, or full portisolation, should be considered.Finally, remember that once a system is properly installedand protected, vigilance is required to maintain the level ofintegrity that was originally designed. One single ‘on-the-fly’addition or change can leave a system with an unprotectedpath and subject to the disruptive effects of power and communicationline anomalies.Paul Haake is vice-president of engineering for Chloride North Americawith responsibilities for all aspects of the design and engineering ofUPSs, power conditioning and communication line protection devices.He has over 25 years of experience in design and design managementfor power conditioning products, and equipment and instrumentationused in the process, utility, nuclear, HVAC, safety and assembly industries.Visit www.chloridepower.com.18 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.comColumbia_EB_March09.indd 1CMBF0902_KF EMT_PVC Ad_vert.indd1 13/10/09 10:45:30 AM3/5/09 6:19:01 PM

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It’s yourBUSINESSBy Ron Coleman, B. Comm., FCCA CMCWinning in tough timesSmall changes make big differences!There is no easy answer as to how you should react in toughtimes. Your business is unique—just like everyone else’s!There are, however, a number of decisions you should beconsidering (and we’ll touch on some of them here), but one ofthe areas on which you really need to focus is your costs.Reducing costs helps increase profit, but take care that yourcost reductions don’t negatively impact your efficiency, otherwiseyou might end up losing more money than you save.Does quality control cost—or save—you money?Every dollar of sales has a direct cost and an impact on variableoverhead. Many contractors ignore variable overhead and treat alloverhead as fixed. Because variable overhead is such a small portion ofthe equation, you shouldn’t have a problem if you take that routeTABLE 1Before After$ $ $ $Revenue 100 100Labour 55 52Materials 25 24Direct cost 80 76Gross profit 20 24Variable overhead 5 4Contribution to fixed overhead 15 20Direct cost covers all the material and labour used in actuallycompleting the project. When you install a light fixture, thelabour and material used are your direct costs. The variableoverhead is the overhead you incur because you are doing thework. It could include the fuel you use to drive to the jobsite.When you succeed in reducing your direct cost (i.e. labour,material, subs) or variable overhead, you make a greater contributionto your fixed overhead. In the example in Table 1, I haveimproved my labour efficiency, got a better deal from my suppliersand reduced my variable overhead. Each $100 of sales contributes$20 toward my fixed overhead instead of $15. If my fixed overheadis, say, $20,000 per month, then my break-even sales are:Fromtorc Flash Labels462 Workplace ElectricalSafety Posters...Contact Brady for yourWorkplace ElectricalSafety Needs!TABLE 2AWorkplace Electrical Safety Brochure NOW AVAILABLE!Call 1-800-263-6179 to request your copy or visit usat www.bradycanada.comBefore AfterOverhead 20,000 20,000Contribution to fixed overhead 15% 20%Amount of sales to break-even $133,333 $100,000ProofSales $133,333 $100,000Labour 55% $73,333 52% $52,000Materials 25% $33,333 24% $24,000Variable overhead 5% $6667 4% $4000Contribution to fixed overhead $20,000 $20,000* Divide overhead by the % contribution$20,000 divided by 15% = $133,333The amount of sales needed to break-even has dropped from$133,333 to $100,000. This means you could reduce your salesby 25% without impacting your bottom line. You might even beable to reduce your overhead and come out ahead. If, throughefficiencies and a lower workload, you could reduce your $20,000overhead by $2000, how would that impact your numbers?The numbers on Table 1 don’t change; only the numbers inTable 2, and here is what it would look like:TABLE 2BBefore AfterOverhead $18,000 $18,000Contribution to fixed overhead 15% 20%Amount of sales to break-even $120,000 $90,000ProofSales $120,000 $90,000Labour 55% $66,000 52% $46,800Materials 25% $30,000 24% $21,600Variable overhead 5% $6000 4% $3600Contribution to fixed overhead $18,000 $18,000AEB039The amount of sales needed to break-even has reducedfrom the original $133,333 to $90,000. This meansyou could experience a drop of 32.5% in sales withoutimpacting your bottom line, and if you reduce yoursales by 32.5%, you should certainly be able to reduceyour overhead.Lower that overheadNow that we can calculate our what-if scenarios, weneed to work on gaining the efficiencies that will helpus reduce overhead.Consult your technicians about what can be doneto improve productivity. It might be better schedulingor new tools; maybe more/better training, or taking onhelpers and apprentices. Talk to your suppliers. Can youget volume discounts? Can you use generic parts? Canthey afford to give you rebates? Can they give you betterprices? Identify your variable overhead and brainstormideas with your team for reducing it. There’s no tellinghow many solutions you and your team can come upwith.When it comes to fixed overhead, go over each itemand ask questions like: What value is this expensebringing to the organization? What would happenif we reduced or eliminated this expense? By whatother means could we get the same outcomes for lessmoney? Also examine your overhead salaries; theylikely make up 50% of your fixed overhead. Can youtake any of those salaries and turn them into directcost? For example, an estimator might be able to runjobs part-time, thereby moving some of his cost outof overhead and into direct cost.Construction versus service workA typical electrical contractor might have a gross profit(marginal contribution) of around 15%, whereas aservice contractor is more likely to be in the 45% to50% range. The fixed overhead for the electrical contractor(doing construction) might be 8% to 10% ofsales, while the electrical service contractor might beat 35% fixed overhead. Because of these differences,you’ll get a variety of outcomes from the exercises abovefor different elements of work—the outcome is muchmore dramatic for the construction contractor thanthe service contractor.Because they are price sensitive not volume sensitive,I encourage trade contractors doing construction workto cut back on volume but maintain their prices.Service work is normally less price sensitive thanconstruction work (you usually don’t have to bid thework), so there’s less of a need to reduce your prices.(Whereas a 5% price reduction would have a smallimpact on the activity level in service work (andunlikely to generate sales), it would have a devastatingimpact on construction work—you would get morework and have less profit. To maintain your servicemargins, you need good marketing strategies.The other main area on which you should befocusing on is revenue, and we’ll look at that in mynext column. Final thought: Canada’s Work-SharingProgram can really help reduce your overhead. Findout more at tinyurl.com/dksfzu.Ron Coleman is a member of the Institute of Certified ManagementConsultants of British Columbia. A noted speaker, he hascompleted many interfirm financial comparisons of groups ofconstruction companies in Canada and the United States. Ron’snumerous published education programs include a 36-hourbusiness management course specifically designed for ECABC.He is also author of the book, “Your Million Dollar System: How toIncrease the Value of Your Construction Business by One MillionDollars in Three Years”. Visit www.ronaldcoleman.ca.Brady_EB_March09.indd 120 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com1/15/09 4:09:12 PM

MIND YOUR SAFETYBy Dave SmithCSA Z462 puts the squeezeon small electrical contractorsCSA Z462, the new Canadian WorkplaceElectrical Safety standard that supersedes NFPA70E, is going to be a struggle to implement forsmall electrical contractors. It’s a huge change for allelectrical workers, but not all companies are the same.Most electrical contractors start out as a one-personshop or, perhaps, as several friends or relatives. Withluck, good business sense and a good market, theythrive and grow.It is well known that 80% of new businesses closetheir doors within the first five years of operation.Some time ago, a Royal Bank study confirmed thisbefore revealing that, of the survivors, 80% close theirdoors within the next five years.This is a 96% attrition rate for small businesses in thefirst 10 years of operation. Granted, numerous factorplay a hand in this conclusion, but a lousy marketplaceis a killer—even for established companies—and weare at the beginning of a royal mess. Someone is goingto disappear. And now the ante is huge on the healthand safety table.Bill C-45 amended the Criminal Code of Canadaseveral years ago to put health and safety in thecrosshairs of the local police. Should they determinethat an accident warrants it, they will press chargeswith no discussion with the Ministry. Once theMinistry becomes engaged, you’ll be fighting twoparallel investigations. Just watch your bank accountdrain now!CSA Z462 is not legally written in stone but everyprovince has a General Duty Clause: “You shall protectyour workers against recognized hazards”. After 28years of trying to convince people that electricity reallyis dangerous, I can tell you that electrocution, arc flashand blast—and all the ancillary nasties—have neverenjoyed such a high profile.A small contractor with an irregular work forcehas a real chore ahead of him, trying to change thehuman behaviour of a gypsy; even a contractor witha seasoned crew will be challenged when trying tochange the habits ingrained after a century of no PPE(personal protective equipment). The complaints willbe constant; the gloves are hot, sticky and clammywithin minutes of putting them on; a face shield haslots of annoyances; hot, claustrophobic, hard to seethrough, they fog up, etc.When you have a recalcitrant workforce thatgrudgingly wears PPE when they are being observed,but go back to old habits when they are alone, yourbusiness and, by extension, all of your hard-earnedassets are seriously at risk.Surviving tough times calls for pork and beansand corn flakes all around, and battening down thefinancial hatches: if it’s an expense, forgo it; if it’s risk,get it under control.Uncontrollable electrical workers that do not adoptand follow the safe work practices of CSA Z462 area risk that you cannot afford. You don’t allow openfires in your shops, do you? Well, not following Z462is like a bonfire waiting to burst.Should one of your workers get electrocuted, you willhave no defence for not fulfilling your responsibilityunder the law. Legal retainers run about $10,000,and you won’t get change back. Going to court willcost you another ten grand, and you still won’t befinished. You’ll also quickly discover that—outside ofyour family and close friends—no one really cares.I have had some terrible times in running my ownbusiness. This will be the fourth ugly downturn I haveexperienced, but I have my survival planned. Whether this isyour first or fourth downturn, you don’t want to go underbecause of an injury that could have been prevented with safework practices and PPE.Z462 is a great shield for defending yourself against accidentsand stupidity. To get it moving, you need to get yourself andyour crews trained, develop a safety program and hold safetymeetings that engage your workers. You cannot avoid spendingmoney on equipment and PPE, so there’s no point in gripingabout it. You’re already the leader, so become a safety leader,too, and become a champion for the standard.When someone crosses the line, make sure they understandwhere that line is and the consequences. If they do it again andagain, fire them; they’re lighting matches in your living room,and they just don’t care.Until next time, be ready, be careful and be safe.Dave Smith is president of Canada Training Group and hasbeen providing consulting services to industry since 1980.At www.canada-training-group.ca, you’ll find stories like this one;feel free to use this information to support your own safety program.You don’t want togo under because ofan injury that couldhave been preventedwith safe workpractices and PPE.You can meet Dave Smithat the Ontario ElectricalLeague’s (OEL’s) ElectricalIndustry Conference, whichruns April 15-18 in Kingston,Ont. Dave’s presentation isproudly sponsored byElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYVisit www.oel.org to register.Fluke has theDigital Multimetersthat improve productivity.(They just need your helping hand)Helping the hands of skilled electrical,commercial, industrial, HVAC, utility,engineering, facility maintenance andelectronics professionals,keep your world up and runningfor over 60 years.800-36-FLUKEwww.flukecanada.ca/dmmCTG_EB_Feb09.indd 12/17/09 1:19:45 Fluke_ad1_EB_March09.indd PM1www. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 231/6/09 10:11:33 AM

TRANSFORMER OILessential for ensuring optimalBy Laurie BrescacinTransformer oil coolers play a criticalrole in keeping electrical generationsystems reliable. They’re a smallinvestment that protect the power industry’shuge capital investment in the massivetransformers that make up the backboneof a nation’s energy supply.Power plant generators produce electricitythat has to be converted to high voltage formore efficient transportation across wiresto substations near businesses, factories andhomes. The transformers that convert theelectricity to high voltage do so extremelyefficiently with only something in the orderof 0.5% of the electrical load being lost inthe form of heat. However, even though theloss percentage is small, the actual quantityof heat can be quite large. The heat thatis produced must be carried away fromthe transformer and dissipated. If not, thetransformer will overheat and be damaged...maybe even destroyed.The windings of the transformer areimmersed in an enhanced mineral oil thatis circulated to cool the transformer. Thisoil also remains stable at high temperaturesand has excellent insulating properties thatprotect against stray current path. The oilcirculates through both the transformerwindings and the cooler, and the heat lost istransferred either to the ambient air aroundthe transformer or to water. The oil-filledtank often has radiators through which theoil circulates by natural convection. Largetransformers use forced oil circulation byelectric pumps, aided by external fans orwater-cooled heat exchangers.The transformer oil cooler has to be sizedto transfer the amount of heat that needs to bedissipated from the transformer, dependingon its size, design and configuration. Sometransformer oil coolers are designed to takeinto account the kinds of adverse conditionsaround the transformer that could potentiallycause a shortfall in performance.Design considerations toensure performanceAir-cooled systems most prevalentMost fossil fuel plants use air-cooled systemsbecause air is always readily available, and itsuse in transformer oil cooling systems usuallyinvolves fewer environmental concerns.There are several design considerationsthat must be taken into account with aircooledsystems. The temperature differencebetween the oil and the air determines theamount of surface needed for cooling. Thegreater the temperature difference betweenthe oil and air, the less surface needed. Sowhen the air temperature has been elevatedbut the oil temperature is fixed (because theapplication cannot allow it to increase), thesize of the cooler’s surface area must alsobe increased.Air-cooled transformer coolers are typicallymounted on the side of the transformer,usually vertically about 3 ft away from thetransformer wall. The coolers take air fromaround the transformer, and fans then drawor push the air through the transformercoolers. The air is then discharged to theenvironment around it. To get the level ofcooling required, designers must be able toaccurately predict the amount of air that willactually flow across the heat exchanger, aswell as the temperature of that air.Depending on how many coolers arerequired and the amount of heat to be dissipated,one to six coolers might be placed alongeach side of the transformer. The more coolersmounted along the side of the transformer,the more likely there will be adverse air recirculationfrom the discharge of that air. Thisis because the discharged air is warmer thanbefore, and when blended with the air that isbeing drawn in to cool the transformer, thedischarged air will raise the temperature of theair that’s coming through.Several other site-specific factors mustbe taken into account to avoid detrimentaleffects on cooler performance:• Wind speed and direction. For example,when fans are blowing air away fromthe transformer but the prevailing windis blowing toward the transformer,warm air will be pushed back.• Buildings around the transformer,firewalls or other fire protectioncomponents can trap air andimpede exhaust.• Existing transformer cooler applicationselsewhere on the site could blow heatedair toward the new installation.For example, a designer may be asked todesign a system based on a 30°C ambientsituation. However, due to one or moreof the factors described above, the airadjacent to the transformer might notbe 30°C, but could possibly be as highas 35°C to 50°C. Experienced designersknow to design a system that reflects theseactual ambient conditions.Water-cooled systemsWater-cooled transformer oil coolers areconsidered more efficient and are usedwhere water is plentiful, as in hydroelectricpower applications. After the heat from thetransformer is dissipated to the water, itis necessary to either discharge the waterback to its source (which has potentialenvironmental issues) or lower the watertemperature before recirculating it throughthe transformer cooler (which requires anauxiliary system).Hammond_EB_Jan09.indd 124 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com1/15/09 11:58:51 AM

REGIONALFOCUSCOOLERS:operationsAlso, water-cooled systems require a leakdetector system to make sure water doesn’t get intotransformer oil and then into the transformer,which could have disastrous consequences.Fans and motors are keyAnother factor that makes a big difference inthe operation of the transformer oil cooler is theselection of the fans and motors for the unit.Designers must size the motor correctly to drivethe air without overheating the motor. Motorcost, cost for required circuitry and/or need touse existing circuitry, and noise levels are allfactors that must be considered.Experience shows that when fans and motorsare selected based solely on the manufacturer’sspecs, they may not perform as required. Fanand motor performance specs are usually basedon optimum conditions, inconsistent with theextreme environment of most power applications.In these conditions, fans frequentlyrequire more energy than specified, requiringlarger motors that, in turn, use more power.Do your homework.Manufacturing process mustbe strictly controlledManufacturing processes must be strictlycontrolled to ensure that the oil coolermeets specifications. Maintaining cleanlinessof the internal surfaces of the cooler duringmanufacturing is extremely important,especially surfaces that would come intocontact with the circulating oil. It is essentialthat no metal particles are introduced thatcould contaminate the oil. Particles that couldget into the transformer windings with the oilwould be extremely detrimental to the life ofthe transformer.In addition to a clean manufacturingprocess, cleaning processes—like a flushingsystem and electronic monitoring or particlecounting systems—can be insurance that thesystem will perform as required and protectthe transformer.Oil coolers protect transformer investmentPower facilities must perform continuously,often in extreme environments. Properly sizedand configured, high-quality transformer oilcoolers play a vital role in maintaining safe,efficient, and reliable electricity production.Overheating can shorten the transformer’slife and, in severe cases, lead to serious andcostly damage—even transformer destruction.Special care is needed to design coolingsystems that accurately reflect the existingonsite ambient conditions.Laurie Brescacin is a senior consultant with London,Ont.-based Unifin International LP. For more informationon air- or water-cooled transformer oil coolers,visit www.unifin.com.Nova Scotia incorporates new electricalcontractor associationThe word is out: on August 1, 2008, the Province of Nova Scotiaincorporated the Nova Scotia Electrical Contractors Association(NSECA), a new group that aims to act as the voice of bothnon-union and union electrical contractors in the province.“With all the issues facing electrical contracting professionals—including contractor licensing—there’s never been a greater needfor an association of electrical contractors for electrical contractorsto stand up for our interests and concerns,” said Colin Campbell,president of NSECA, and owner of the electrical contracting firmCM Campbell Electric Ltd.To get the association up and running, NSECA has called aGeneral Meeting at noon, March 26, at Eddy Supply, BayersLake Industrial Park (31 Oland Crescent in Halifax), wherecommon interests and goals will be discussed, followed by workon a strategic plan.“Many of our peers in other provinces—British Columbia,Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and NewBrunswick—already belong to established electrical contractorassociations,” notes Campbell, adding, “It’s time Nova Scotia’selectrical contractors also made their voices heard and, to do that,we need to speak with a united voice! I invite and encourage everyelectrical contractor in Nova Scotia—regardless of size—to attendand become members.”Affiliated industry professionals, such as distributors,suppliers, inspectors, etc., are also encouraged to participate inNSECA’s activities.For more information, e-mail campbellc@eastlink.ca.Energy strategy identifies The Yukon’s vision and prioritiesMinister of energy, mines and resources for The Yukon, BradCathers, has released “Energy Strategy for Yukon”—a long-termvision for responsibly developing and managing energy resourcesto meet the territory’s needs.The energy strategy addresses priority energy issues, including:• conserving energy and using it more efficiently;• increasing the supply and use of renewable energy;• meeting The Yukon’s current and future electricity needs; and• managing responsible oil and gas development.Development of the strategy included energy sector research,a public workshop and extensive consultation involving FirstNations, stakeholders and the public.To get a copy of “Energy Strategy for Yukon”, visit www.gov.yk.ca.2010Looking for Electricalproducts or equipment?Find what you needwith our BlueBookonline source guideat www.ebmag.caNova Scotia building code changes postponedImplementation of Nova Scotia’s new building code regulationsis being rescheduled for late 2009 to help the construction sectormake the changes more smoothly.Consultation with industry revealed that builders and theircustomers would benefit from having more time to fulfil buildingagreements made under the current building code. This wouldminimize additional costs and allow time for businesses to use upexisting materials inventories.The consultation also showed that industry wished to have moreeducation and time for training to implement significant changesto the code that address—for the first time—energy and waterconservation measures. The proposed changes will mean moreenergy- and water-efficient homes and offices for Nova Scotians,and maintain consistency with national standards.“This is exactly why ongoing consultation is an important partof government’s work,” said Mark Parent, minister of labour andworkforce development. “We are responding to the interests ofindustry stakeholders affected by changes to the building code,while making sure the new code will work for them as well as itwill to protect Nova Scotians.”During a consultation period that ended December 3, 2008,most respondents strongly endorsed the new goals for energy andwater conservation measures but felt more time and informationwould be required to implement them well.“Extending the proposed implementation period will increaseand speed up compliance with the new code,” said Peter Greer,chair of the Nova Scotia Building Advisory Committee. “It willalso foster positive relations between building officials and theindustry into the future because it shows that government islistening to our recommendations.”The proposed changes are available on the Labour and WorkforceDevelopment website at www.gov.ns.ca/lwd/buildingcode.Record spending in New Brunswick’s post-secondaryeducation infrastructureNew Brunswick is investing $105 million in the Edmundston,Saint John, Moncton and Bathurst community college campusesover the next two years, said Donald Arseneault, post-secondaryeducation, training and labour minister.“This is an important step in increasing community collegestudent capacity and making the connection between our postsecondaryeducation system and our province’s changing labourmarket needs as we move to be self-sufficient by 2026,” saidArseneault. “When you combine the additions to these fourcampuses, the network will see an additional 1200 seats allowingmore students to enter the province’s community colleges.”Edmundston will get $35 million for a new 116,208-sf campusadjacent to the current high school and Université de Moncton-Everything you want inextraordinaryElectrical Testers(Don’t be afraid to ask)Electrical, Digital Multimeters,Voltage, continuity and current,Insulation, gas, temperature and power.800-36-FLUKEwww.flukecanada.ca/electricalBB_HouseAd_EB_March09.indd 13/19/09 3:57:49 Fluke_ad2_EB_Feb09.indd PM1www. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 251/6/09 9:59:53 AM

REGIONALFOCUSLIGHTING PRODUCTSEdmundston campus (100 total new seats). Saint Johnwill see $44.3 million for a new 24,210-sf building onthe UNBSJ campus and a new 96,840-sf building on themain campus at Grandview Avenue (600 total new seats).$20 million has been earmarked for Moncton for overhaulingthe existing facility and reassigning training spacesto maximize shop and classroom availability. This willinclude an additional 29,052 sf of training space behindthe current facility (400 total new seats). $3.6 million isheaded to Bathurst, where a multi-purpose, 12,600-sf shopis being added to the trades site (100 total new seats).Another $2 million will be available this year for regularcampus maintenance.New independent electricity efficiencyadministrator in Nova ScotiaA new, independent administrator for programs to helpcut electricity consumption and reduce peak demand willbe created in Nova Scotia, as recommended in a DalhousieUniversity report.The report recommends creating an independent entityfor electricity demand-side management, reporting to aboard of directors, and overseen by the Utility and ReviewBoard (UARB). The new administrator is expected to bein place before the end of next year. Required legislationchanges are scheduled for the spring.David Wheeler, dean of Dalhousie University’s facultyof management, led a consultation this past spring todetermine who should administer programs to help cutelectricity consumption and reduce peak demand.“Energy experts agree that energy efficiency and conservationare key to keeping electricity affordable for NovaScotians,” said Richard Hurlburt, minister responsiblefor Conserve Nova Scotia. “Demand-side managementprograms will help consumers manage their electricitycosts and protect them from higher electricity rates.”UARB approved Nova Scotia Power as the interimadministrator. Conserve Nova Scotia will continue todeliver energy efficiency and conservation programs,refocusing its efforts on fuels rather than electricity.Four electricity demand-side management programsstarted in Summer 2008, including direct-install lightingfor small business, housing efficiency upgrades for lowincomefamilies, a commercial and industrial customprogram and an efficient lighting products awarenesscampaign. A copy of the report is available online at www.conservens.ca/publicconsultations.PEI electrical inspectors say aluminum is okayElectrical inspectors in P.E.I. are advising Islandersthat aluminum wiring can be safe but must beproperly maintained.Inspectors have received a number of enquiries recentlyabout the safety of aluminum wiring—many calls comingfrom homeowners considering alternate heat sources,such as portable heaters, electric fireplaces and electricbaseboard heating.Although not commonly used anymore in residentialdwellings, aluminum wiring was often installed in homesfrom the mid 1960s until the late 1970s. Officials inthe Electrical Inspection Section of the Department ofCommunities, Cultural Affairs and Labour say aluminumwiring is both safe and permitted under the CanadianElectrical Code. However, inspectors stress the importanceof maintaining proper connections and terminations inolder wiring installations.There have been some reported problems withaluminum wiring related to overheating and failure of theterminations. This can happen as the wiring ages becausealuminum has a tendency to oxidize and may not be compatiblewith devices designed for use with copper wire.As well, inspectors caution that, throughout the years,rodents may have used insulation around the wiring fornests, leaving the wires dangerously exposed.Some homes may contain both aluminum and copper.Inspectors say that anyone with concerns about thewiring in their home should contact a qualified electricalcontractor who is knowledgeable in working with andrepairing aluminum wiring.Questions about aluminum wiring in residentialdwellings can be directed to a senior electrical inspectorat (902) 368-5280.Litecontrol canopy box T-bar on-gridmounting solutionLitecontrol’s canopy box isdesigned for on-grid lightingfixture mounting in T-barceiling installations. Intendedfor installation in a NEMA Type G grid ceilingwith a maximum T-bar height of 1 1/2 in., thecanopy box can be installed where fixture hangingcables are located on a Main T. The canopy box iscUL approved; the feed cord enters the electrical box directlybelow the ceiling plane; and is intended for use with 9/16-in.T-bar, 15/16-in. T-bar and screw-slot T-bar.LITECONTROLwww.litecontrol.comVista LTC recessed LED commercial nightlightsVista’s LTC nightlights provide compact,recessed LED wall-mounted units, withlight-directing integral louvers that may bespecified for vertical interior installationsin long-term care and other facilities. Thenightlights are characterized by non-glarelight that consumes just 5 watts per unit,whether Amber, Blue or White LEDs areselected. Each of three models have thesame dimensions, with a choice of an open faceplate, andvertical die-cast louvers, including an optional photocell.The lights have a low-profile appearance with no sharpedges, and are easily cleaned. They’re coated with AgIONslow-release antimicrobial that inhibits bacterial colonizationon painted interior and exterior surfaces.VISTA LIGHTINGwww.vistalighting.comPRODUCTSPetro-Canada Luminol TR and TRielectrical insulating fluidsPetro-Canada says Luminol TR and TRi electrical insulatingfluids are the only fluids in the Canadian market meeting thenew Type III and Type IV special requirements introduced byCSA, which were created to ensure electrical insulating fluidsperform under the demand put on by today’s HVDC andshell-type power transformers, free-breathing transformersoperating under overload conditions, and reactors. Referredto as CSA C50-08 (formerly CSA C50-97), the new specincludes four revisions: upgraded ASTM D1275B corrosivesulphur testing; addition of a reclaimed oil category; limitsfor 2-furaldehyde; and the two new fluid categories (Type IIIand Type IV). The fluids are suitable for use in large powerand distribution transformers operating at peak capacity.PETRO-CANADAlubricants.petro-canada.comTy-Rap pneumatic cable tie installation toolThomas & Betts Canada suggests you try out its Ty-Rappneumatic cable tie installation tool for fast, consistent cabletie installation in high-volume applications. Pneumaticpower combined with ergonomic design lets you tension andtrim large quantities of Ty-Rap cable ties in rapid successionwith accuracy and one-button ease. Rotate the narrow nose360° to get into tight spaces. Set the tension with a quicktwist of the tensionadjustmentwheel,which is located nearthe nose for easy access. Forrepetitive work requiring a constanttension, use the tension lock toprevent accidental setting changes.A storage slot in the handle keepsa spare cutting blade at hand. Youcan use the tool to install Ty-Rapcable ties from 18 lb to 50 lb intensile strength.THOMAS & BETTS CANADAwww.tnb-canada.comStandard Safety Glowphotoluminescent productsStandard’s Safety Glowproducts provide continuoussupplementarylighting to help guidepeople in emergencysituations. The photoluminescentproducts absorb and store ambientlight that becomes immediately visible in a sudden blackoutor smoky conditions. In addition to photoluminescent wayfindingstrips, consider installing a non-slip system on theedges of steps and landings to help prevent slips and falls.The Safety Glow line offers a variety of exit signs, egresssystems for both high- and low-traffic areas, as well as photoluminescenttape and directional signs.STANDARD PRODUCTSwww.standardpro.comUshio Ultraline Titan MR-16 lampsUshio introduced an MR-16that can last, it says, up to18,000 hours. UltralineTitan lamps promise tolast three times longer thanstandard MR-16s, and areavailable in spot, narrowflood, flood and wide floodbeam spreads. Titan employsan axial filament that iscomputer-aligned to attainprecise 12°, 24°, 36° and 60° beam angles.USHIOwww.ushio.comSiemens expands smart MCC product lineSiemens is expanding its Tiastar Smartmotor control centre (MCC) productoffering to provide seamless integrationof this line into customer sites with competitivecontrol systems. The company’snew offering includes a series of gatewaysolutions that transition the Profibus-DP network inside the Smart MCC tothe customer-desired control network.The gateway solutions are factoryinstalledand programmed in a 12-in.MCC bucket. Additionally, Siemens hasdeveloped a series of PLC card solutions,which enable easy integration of theSmart MCC to run Profibus-DP through Rockwell orModicon PLCs. Both solutions have been tested on the fullsuite of Smart Components in the Tiastar Smart MCC.SIEMENS ENERGY & AUTOMATIONwww.sea.siemens.comLittelfuse Up-LINK fuseholderLittelfuse’s new remote-indicationfuseholder employing Up-LINKtechnology integrates into a facility’sexisting monitoring network or PLC;when a fuse opens, a control signal isgenerated that can be relayed via thecontrol network to maintenance personnel,indicating precisely where the fuse is located.In conjunction with a user-programmed PLC, users have theoption to transmit additional information that can furtherreduce downtime, including fuse type and the tools needed toreplace it, and required PPE. Each fuseholder is also equippedwith a built-in indicating LED that further identifies theopen fuse inside a panel. The DIN-Rail mountable, deadfrontfuseholders house Class CC and Midget style fuses, areUL-approved, and meet all applicable IEC requirements.LITTELFUSEwww.littelfuse.com26 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com

TnB_earlug_EB_March09.in d 1 2/27/09 10:34:07 AMAlso in this i sue .• Pa sive filter bank beats backharmonics (Page 10)Transformer oil coolers (Page 24)• CSA Z462 puts the squ eze onsma l electrical contractors(Page 23)3/16/09 1:58: 2 PM26 • MARCH 2 09 • w. mag.comEdmundston campus (1 0 total new seats). Saint Johnwi l s e $ 4.3 mi lion for a new 24,210-sf building onthe UNBSJ campus and a new 96,840-sf building on themain campus at Grandview Avenue (6 0 total new seats).$20 mi lion has b en earmarked for Moncton for overhaulingth existing facility and rea signing training spacesto maximize shop and cla sr om availability. This wi linclude an a ditional 29,052 sf of training space behindthe current facility (4 0 total new seats). $3.6 million isheaded to Bathurst, where a multi-purpose, 12,6 0-sf shopis being a ded to the trade site (1 0 total new seats).Another $2 mi lion wi l be available this year fo regularcampus maintenance.New independent electricity e ficiencyadministrator Nova ScotiaA new, independent administrator for programs to helpcut electricity consumption and reduce peak demand wi lbe created in Nova Scotia, as reco mended in a DalhousieUniversity report.The report reco mends creating an independent entityfor electricity demand-side management, reporting to aboard of directors, and overs en by the Utility and Reviewof management, led a consultation this past spring toThe lights have a low-profile a pearance with no sharpdetermine who should administer programs to help cutelectricity consumption and reduce peak demand.“Energy experts agr e that energy e ficiency and conservationare key to k eping electricity a fordable for NovaScotians,” said Richard Hurlburt, ministe responsiblefor Conserve Nova Scotia. “Demand-side managementprograms wi l help consumers manage their electricitycosts and protect them from higher electricity rates.”UARB a proved Nova Scotia Power as the interimadministrator. Conserve Nova Scotia wi l continue todeliver energy e ficiency and conservation programs,refocusing its e forts on fuels rather than electricity.Four electricity demand-side management programsstarted in Su mer 2 08, including direct-insta lightingfor sma l busine s, housing e ficiency upgrades for lowincomefamilies, a co mercial and industrial customprogram and an e ficient lighting products awarene scampaign. A copy of the report is available online at w.operating under overload conditions, and reactors. Refe redconservens.ca/publi consultations.PEI electrical inspectors say aluminum is okayElectrical inspectors in P.E.I. are advising Islandersthat aluminum wiring can be safe but must beproperly maintained.Inspectors have received a number of enquiries recentlyabou the safety of aluminum wiring—many ca ls comingfrom homeowners considering alternate heat sources,such as portable heaters, electric fireplaces and electricbaseboard heating.REGIONALFOCUSAlthough not co monly used anymore in residentialdwe lings, aluminum wiring was often installed in homesthe Electrical Inspection Section of the Department ofCo munities, Cultural A fairs and Labour say aluminumElectrical Code. However, inspector stre s the importanceof maintaining proper co nections and terminations inolder wiring insta lations.aluminum wiring related t overheating and failure of theterminations. This can happen as the wiring ages becausealuminum has a tendency t oxidize and may not be compatiblewith devices designed for use with co per wire.rodents may have used insulation around the wiring fornests, leaving the wires dangerously exposed.Some homes may contain both aluminum and co per.Inspector say that anyone with concerns abou thewiring in their home should contact a qualified electricalcontractor who is knowledgeable in working with andrepairing aluminum wiring.dwe lings can be directed to a senior electrical inspectorat (902) 368-5280.Questions about aluminum wiring in residentialLitecontrol canopy box T-bar on-gridmounting solutionLitecontrol’s canopy box isdesigned for on-grid lightingfixture mounting T-barceiling insta lations. Intendedfor insta lation in a NEMA Type G grid ceilingwith a maximum T-bar height of 1/2 in., thecanopy box can be insta led where fixture hangingcables are located on a Main T. The canopy box i scUL a proved; the f ed cord enters th electrical box directlybelow the ceiling plane; and is intended for use with 9/16-in.Vista LTC recessed LED co mercial nightlightsUshio Ultraline Titan MR-16 lampsVista’s LTC nightlights provide compact,light-directing integra louvers that may bespecified for vertical interior insta lationsin long-term care and other facilities. Thenightlights are characterized by non-glarevertical die-cast louvers, including an optional photoce l.edges, and ar easily cleaned. They’re coated with AgIONon painted interior and exterior surfaces.VISTA LIGHTINGw.vistalighting.comslow-release antimicrobial that inhibits bacterial colonizationStandard Safety Glowphotoluminescent productsStandard’s Safety Glowlighting to help guidepeople in emergencysituations. The photoluminescentproducts absorb and store ambientproducts provide continuousu plementaryor smoky conditions. In a dition to photoluminescent wayfindingstrips, consider insta ling a non-slip system on theT-bar, 15/16-in. T-bar and screw-slot T-bar.edges of steps and landings to hel prevent slips and fa ls.LITECONTROLw.litecontrol.comsystems for bot high- and low-tra fic areas, as we l as photoluminescentape and directional signs.STANDARD PRODUCTSw.standardpro.comrece sed LED wa l-mounted units, withUshio introduced an MR-16Petro-Canada Luminol TR and TRielectrical insulating fluidsPetro-Canada says Luminol TR and TRi electrical insulatingfluids are the only fluids in the Canadian market m eting thenew Type I and Type IV special requirements introduced byCSA, which were created to ensur electrical insulating fluidsperform under the demand put on by today’s HVDC andshe l-type power transformers, fr e-breathing transformersto as CSA C50-08 (formerly CSA C50-97), the new specsulphur testing; addition of a reclaimed oil category; limitsincludes fou revisions: upgraded ASTM D1275B co rosivefor 2-furaldehyde; and the two new fluid categories (Type Iwith a curacy and one-button ease. Rotate the narrow nose360° to get into tight spaces. Se the tension with a quicktwist of the tension-from the mid 1960s until the late 1970s. O ficials inwiring is both safe and permi ted under the Canadiantie insta lation in high-volume a plications. PneumaticThere have b en some reported problems withadjustment wh el,which is located nearAs we l, inspectors caution that, throughou the years, the nose for easy a ce s. Fortension, use the tension lock toprevent a cidental se ting changes.Ty-Ra pneumati cable tie insta lation t olLittelfuse Up-LINK fuseholderThomas & Be ts Canada su gests you try out its Ty-Rappneumati cable tie insta lation t ol for fast, consistent cablepower combined with ergonomic design lets you tension andtrim large quantities of Ty-Rap cable ties in rapid su ce sionrepetitive work requiring a constantA storage slot in the handle k epsa spare cutting blade at hand. Youcan use the t ol to install Ty-Rapcable ties from 18 lb to 50 lb intensile strength.THOMAS & BE TS CANADAwww.tnb-canada.comligh that becomes i mediately visible in a su den blackoutThe Safety Glow line o fers a variety of exit signs, egre sprecise 12°, 24°, 36° and 60° beam angles.USHIOwww.ushio.comSiemens expands smart M C product linethat can last, it says, up to18, 0 hours. UltralineTitan lamps promise tostandard MR-16s, and areavailable in spot, na rowan axial filamen that iscomputer-aligned to a tainlas thr e times longer thanfl od, fl od and wide fl odbeam spreads. Titan employsSiemens is expanding its Tiastar Smartmotor control centre (M C) productsolutions tha transition the Profibus-The gateway solutions are factoryinstaled and progra med in a 12-in.of this line into customer sites with com-o fering to provide seamle s integrationpetitive control systems. The company’snew o fering includes a series of gatewayDP network inside the Smart M C tothe customer-desired control network.M C bucket. A ditiona ly, Siemens hasdeveloped a series of PLC card solutions,which enabl easy integration of theSmart M C to run Profibus-DP through Rockwe l orModicon PLCs. Both solutions have b en tested on the fu lsuite of Smart Components in the Tiastar Smart MCC.SIEMENS ENERGY & AUTOMATIONww.sea.siemens.comLi telfuse’s new remote-indicationfuseholder employing Up-LINKtechnology integrates into a facility’sexisting monitoring network or PLC;when a fuse opens, a control signal isgenerated that can be relayed via thecontrol network to maintenance perso nel,indicating precisely where the fuse is located.option to transmit a ditional information that can furtherreplace it, and required PE. Each fuseholder is also equi pedIn conjunction with a user-progra med PLC, users have thereduce downtime, including fuse type and the t ols n eded towith a built-in indicating LED that further identifies theopen fuse inside a panel. The DIN-Rail mountable, dead-UL-a proved, and m et a l plicable IEC requirements.front fuseholders house Cla s C and Midget style fuses, areLI TELFUSEww.li telfuse.comPRODUCTSCooper Bussmann Quik-Spec distribution productsCooper Bussmann’s Quik-Spec family of electrical distributionequipment promises a simple and cost-effectiveway to selectively coordinate a fused electrical distributionsystem. The Quik-Spec family includes a coordination panelboard,power module switch and panel, and safety switch.With this system, there’s no need to do a short-circuitcurrent study or plot time-current curves to engineer fuseselective coordination. The fusible panelboard is UL listed,while the switch and panel both meet prevailing ANSI/ASME, NEC and NFPA 72 requirements for shunt-tripelevator disconnect applications. The safety switch meetsUL and NEC requirements, features an enhanced fingersafedesign and an easy interface with viewing window.Plus, its Class J performance Low-Peak CUBEFuse offersarc flash protection.COOPER BUSSMANNwww.cooperbussmann.comGE AKD-20 low-voltage switchgear with EntelliGuardEmploying EntelliGuard G lowvoltagecircuit breakers (availablefrom 800A to 5000A with faultratings up to 150kAIC) and the TUTrip Unit, the AKD-20 low-voltageswitchgear promises to enhancesystem reliability and arc flash protection.The AKD-20 involves afootprint that uses smaller sectionsizes when possible: 22-in., 30-in.or 38-in. widths. Since the breakercompartment doors have no ventilationopenings, operators areprotected from hot ionized gasesvented by the breaker should an arc flash incident occur.The switchgear integrates a bus system that offers differentlevels of protection, while insulated and isolated bus makesmaintenance procedures touch-friendly to reduce the riskof arc flash. To learn about the AKD-20’s many otherfeatures, visit the website.GE CONSUMER & INDUSTRIALwww.ge.comAPC 800kVA to 1100kVA MGE Galaxy EPS 8000 UPSAPC’s three-phase MGE Galaxy EPS 8000 1000/1100kVAuninterruptible power supply (UPS) offers scalable powerprotection. Relying on 12 pulse rectifier and inverter technologiesto restrict total harmonic distortion to less than5%, and boasts an integrated galvanic copper isolationtransformer. A 100% step-load capability promises a quickresponse to load changes with accurate voltage regulation.In addition, the 8000 incorporates fault tolerant circuitrythat protects it from accidental short circuits (usuallycaused by load side failures or overloads) and a 100% ratedoutput static switch with a stable, predetermined responsetime. The UPS interfaces with common communicationprotocols and incorporates four communication slots ina rackmount multi-slot case to support SNMP, J-Bus/ModBus and RS232-RS485 protocols.APC (by Schneider Electric)www.apc.comLeviton expands Powerswitchsafety disconnect switch lineLeviton expanded the PowerSwitchsafety disconnect switch line to includethe enclosed disconnect switch withreceptacle (EDSR-23). It combines a30A, 600vac safety disconnect switchand NEMA locking receptacle in oneenclosure, resulting in faster installation,easier maintenance and, says Leviton,longer device life. At 6.25-in. wide, theEDSR-23 fits between an I-beam’s flangesand provides enough wiring space forboth switch and receptacle. EDSR-23accepts standard 20A or 30A NEMAlocking flush receptacles rated up to 600V and is shippedcomplete with grounding plate and wires for connectingreceptacle to switch.LEVITONwww.leviton.comIdeal Term-A-Nut grounding connectorsThe Term-a-Nut groundingconnector allows for quick,hassle-free grounding of steeloutlet boxes, enclosures andelectrical devices. Requiringno crimping or specializedtools, Term-a-Nut connectorscan be easily removed foreither fast changes or repeatusage. Professional-gradefeatures include: heavy-duty,solid brass terminal; threadformingground screw withcombination hex, Phillips and slotted heads; and flexiblelead wire. You can choose from connectors that have apigtail with either a fork terminal or with a ring and groundscrew, or the grounding combo that has a pigtail with aring and ground screw, combined with a jumper and afork terminal. The connectors are available in bags of 10,25, 100 and 250 pieces.IDEAL INDUSTRIESwww.idealindustries.comP&S Plugtail Power PreFab wiring assembliesPass & Seymour/Legrand’s PlugTailPower pre-fabricated wiring assemblieswill help commercial electrical contractorsrealize greater efficiencies withrepetitive installations in, for example,hotels, office buildings and condominiums.The assemblies install simply,with no vertical measuring necessary forthe floor brackets, which slide under thesill plate. The wall brackets screw directlyto the studs. The assembly system includesfloor or wall brackets with one- or two-gang openings,pre-installed boxes and pre-installed mud rings available in5/8-in. or 3/4-in. rise. The assembly also includes supportarms in the back, to brace the unit and ensure rigidity. P&SPlugTail Connectors are pre-wired to the ground screw andallow contractors to make device choices at finish.PASS & SEYMOUR/LEGRANDwww.passandseymour.comCooper Crouse-Hinds wireless monitoring solutionsCooper Crouse-Hinds has added a product line of industrialfocusedwireless monitoring solutions that are designedspecifically for monitoring and controlling processes in challengingor difficult industrial and hazardous applications.Through a system of transmitters, receivers, transceiversand interface gateways, the Industrial Wireless Solutions offerboth one- and two-way wireless monitoring capabilities for ahost of industrial applications, including tank level monitoring,pump performance metrics, conveyor belt alignments, heat tracemonitoring and more. The line is complemented by a list ofaccessories, including high-powered antennas and explosionproofenclosures.COOPER CROUSE-HINDSwww.crouse-hinds.com/wirelessIOAppleton U-Line portable receptacle/GFCIAppleton has expanded its U-Line series of electrical receptaclesto include a Class I, Division 1 and 2 portable receptacle/GFCIcombination. The 125vac receptacle delivers open neutralprotection while also safeguarding the connectedapparatus against damage from short circuits andcurrent overload. Engineered to safely work inhazardous environments, the combo meets all ULand CSA requirements for non-hazardous locations,such as marinas. The device is constructedof aluminum and weighs 7.5 lb, featuresa GFCI designed for 20A receptacles,and has a built-in carrying handle andheavy-duty, three-foot SO power cord.A visible pilot light indicates theGFCI is engaged and the receptacleready for use.APPLETONwww.appletonelec.comElectrical Business is alsoDIGITAL!Visit www.EBMag.com and clickto start your experience!A CLB MEDIA INC. PUBLICATION • MARCH 2 09 • VOLUME 45 • I SUE 3ElectricalB usinessPM # 4 063602 PAP registration # 10 74THE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYProtectingelectronicsin the industrialenvironmentmission-criticalBoard (UARB). The new administrator is expected to beligh that consumes just 5 wa ts per unit,in place before the end of next year. Required legislationwhether Amber, Blue or White LEDs arechanges are scheduled for the spring.selected. Each of thr e models have theDavid Wh eler, dean of Dalhousie University’s faculty same dimensions, with a choice of an open faceplate, andCreate your FREE listingPlease callJohn MacPherson @ (905) 713-4335or Scott Hoy @ (905) 726-4664for Digital Edition sponsorship opportunities!EB_Mar09_1-18.in d 1 3/16/09 1:58: 2 PMThere’s no timeto waste.Keep more energy dollars inyour company’s pocket.Power Loggers forenergy consumption testing.TiR Thermal Imagers for plantequipment and building inspection.Air meters for HVAC efficiency andoccupant comfort.and more.800-36-FLUKEwww.flukecanada.ca/energyCa ling a lPRODUCTSand Type IV). The fluids are suitable for use in large poweran distribution transformers operating peak capacity.PETRO-CANADAlubricants.petro-canada.comLIGHTING PRODUCTSEB_Mar09_19-32.indd d 26 3/16/09 3:05:18 PMFluke_ad2_EB_March09.indd 1www. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 271/6/09 10:12:28 AM

MULTIMEDIA RESOURCESEaton’s BlackoutTracker keeps tabs onnation’s power outagesEaton Corp.’s Blackout Trackerprovides a snapshot of reportedpower outages across the country.With information compiled by EatonPower Quality Co. since April 2008,the tracker serves as an interactive and educational resource showcasing the causesand impact of power outages. Blackout Tracker divides Canada into four regions, andcategorizes blackouts by cause (i.e. animals, weather/falling trees, theft/vandalism,vehicle accidents, etc.). Visitors are invited to submit their own outage reports onlineand request an annual Blackout Tracker report that provides a statistical analysis ofpower outages reported across the nation and in their home state.To check it out, visit www.powerware.com/canada(you may be asked to register, though registration is free).Guide for installingphotoluminescent exitstairway markingsThe NRC-IRC has published a guide providinginformation about the installation ofphotoluminescent (PL) markings in buildings,and the requirements for satisfactoryperformance. In blackout situations, PL safetymarkings in the form of paint, plastic stripsand signs can aid evacuation by guiding anddirecting people to safer locations. While theguide was developed primarily for federal offi ce buildings, it can be used to aidin the design and installation of PL markings in other types of buildings withenclosed exit stairways as means of egress.Visit irc.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/pubs/fulltext/nrcc50818.Hammond HPSAcademy transformertraining centreHammond Power Solutions(HPS) has launched an onlineresource centre to educatevisitors on transformertechnologies, helping thembetter evaluate performancecharacteristics and improve system effi ciency. The online resource featuresinteractive presentations focused on HPS products, electrical standards andregulations, installation procedures, theory and more. HPS plans on adding atleast 40 training modules to the resources centre this year.Visit the HPS Academy at www.hammondpowersolutions.com(click the announcement).WAGO’s eBooks tool offers access to cataloguesWAGO Corp. has moved its fi ve full-line productcatalogues online to create the eBooks tool.The move gives you online access to the nearly17,000 products from WAGO’s interconnect,electrical interface and automation product lines.The eBooks have a search and indexing systemto help you locate and print catalogue pages.Access WAGO’s free eBooks online tool at www.wago.us/ebooks.htm.Controlled Power “Electrical Power Solutions” brochureControlled Power Co. , a manufacturer ofelectrical power quality solutions, has publishedan “Electrical Power Solutions” brochure.Available in both PDF hardcopy formats, the sixpage,colour document highlights key products inthe company’s major product families, as well asthe typical market applications for each product.Visit www.controlledpwr.com.Fluke multimeter application notefor under-utilized functionsFluke Corp. has published a series of application notesto help you perform advanced testing with its digitalmultimeters (DMMs). For example, one under-utilizedfunction is Fast Min/Max or Peak Min/Max recording,available on the Fluke 287-289 and 187-189 DMMs.When set up to monitor a signal or system, these DMMscan capture intermittent or transient events as shortas 250µs, and can record the time and duration of theevent. With this information, you gain insight into thestability of the signal or system you’re evaluating.For more information, visit www.fl ukecanada.ca.Columbia Lighting launches new websiteIn addition to a new look, Columbia’swebsite offers a variety of productsearch options, including QuickSearch, Products Menu, Search byType and Search by Feature. Theproduct pages contain four tabsoffering you an overview, productand application images, technicaldrawings, spec data and literature.Ordering information and availabilitytables are available as a pop-upreference. Columbia’s createchangeenergy-effi cient luminaires and energy analysis software tools are also thereunder Resources, making it easier to research, specify and choose energy-savinglighting solutions.Visit www.columbialighting.com and check it out.Stahlin SolarGuard animated 3D videoAn animated 3D video available onlinedemonstrates how SolarGuard from StahlinNon-Metallic Enclosures protects compositeenclosures from UV degradation. SolarGuard isa non-haloginated system, meaning it containsno bromine or antimony, thereby reducing therisk of smoke-borne toxicity. The proprietaryformulation technology enhances the molecularbond strength and crosslinking that occurduring the curing process, making it morediffi cult for UV energy to attack the molecularbonds of both primary chains and crosslinks.Follow the front page SolarGuard navigational button at www.stahlin.com.IEC launches new WebstoreIEC has launched a new version ofits IEC Webstore, coinciding with thestore’s 10th anniversary. On a functionallevel, you can place orders faster, whilean advanced search tool providesfurther refi nement with the possibilityto select publications on the basis ofheader references such as IEC or CISPR,TC (Technical Committee) numbers ortheir titles, and ICS number references or their code titles. A further possibility letsyou enter publication date ranges to obtain the publication you’re looking for. Newfunctionalities are expected to be added in the coming months.Visit webstore.iec.ch.NAED Green Commercial and Industrial GuidesThe National Association ofElectrical Distributors introducedtwo planning guides that underscoregreen electrical products andsolutions proved to reduce electricalconsumption and commercial buildingoperating costs. “Industrial Upgrades:Green Electrical Cost Savings” and“Commercial Upgrades: GreenElectrical Cost Savings” are availableto NAED members, associates andallied partners.For more information, e-mail Customer Serviceat customerservice@naed.org or visit www.naed.org.28 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.comBritech_EB_Feb09.indd 12/19/09 4:02:24 PM

54-100 kW DieselGenerator SetPowered by the C4.4 engine, thisgenerator set is designed for standbyand prime applications for bothstationary and rental use. CaterpillarACERT ® Technology meets EPA Tier 3emissions regulations without sacrificingfuel economy or performance.www.catelectricpowerinfo.com/ppASTAT ® XT Soft StartersPowerful features. Easy application.The ASTAT ® XT soft starter provides reliableperformance and smooth acceleration for arange of standard AC motors, from BA-1400Aand from 230V-690V. By controlling motoracceleration and deceleration, it reducesmechanical wear and tear on motors betterthan across the line starting methods.ASTAT XT soft starters are ideally suited forapplications such as pumps, fans, compressorsand conveyors.For complete details, call 1-877-259-0941, ext. 2912or e-mail us at marketingcdn@ge.com.www.ge-ed.ca www.geindustrial.comPRODUCT SHOWCASEElecLOADBANKSfor RENT600V,480V & 208V Genset load testingand UPS load testing equipment.Metering, Cables and tech support available.Shipped anywhere.Call 1-800-385-4421 for rates.WE BUY AND SELL GENERATORSGE_lit1_EB_March09.indd 12/27/09 8:39:06 AM©2009 Caterpillar All Rights Reserved CAT, CATERPILLAR,their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” ACERT, HEUI,ADEM and the POWER EDGE trade dress, as well as corporateand product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillarand may not be used without permission.WANTEDMolded Case Circuit Breakers. New & Used, All Brands.Motor Control & MCC. Buckets in A&B, S.D. & W.H. & C.H.Please call, email or fax Ralph Falvo with your list.FALVO ELECTRICAL SUPPLY LTD.5838-87A St., Edmonton, Alberta1-800-661-8892780-466-8078 Fax 780-468-1181email: rjf@falvo.comElectrical Design/Simulation Software Etc.Falvo_EB_April08.indd 13/19/08 2:11:41 PMFalvo_EB.indd 1 1/11/07 12:14:25 PMThe Constructor- Ladder Logic Design & SimulationRes Wire Pro - for Professional Residential Wiring.Bentley promise - Electrical Control System Design.Dolphin Volts - Automate the electrical design process.Tutorial Software- ControLogix Trainer, PLC TrainerHMI-covers RSView 32 works, MC Motor ControlWaltech_EB_Jan09.indd 1Trainer, TSTroubleshooting Trainer,VFD Variable Frequency Drives.Waltech AssociatesTel: 905-466-7417 Fax: 905-315-8492e-mail: info@waltechassociates.comwww.waltechassociates.com347V UltraMax ® High-Efficiency Electronic BallastsUltra Performance. Maximum Efficiency.Transform the power of light into performance, savingsand environmental benefits with new 347V UltraMax ®high-efficiency, instant start T8 electronic ballasts from GE.• More than 40% energy savings• Fully parallel independent lamp operation• Anti-striation control• Small, low-profile and lightweight housing• -22˚F/-30˚C minimum starting temperature• RoHS compliant• Ultra Cool operationFor complete details, call 1-877-259-0941, ext. 2912or e-mail us at marketingcdn@ge.com. www.gelighting.comRaylew_EB_Feb09.indd 1GE_lit2_EB_March09.indd 12/27/09 8:43:02 AMBidding and Winning in Tough Economic TimesSolid Bidding is the Core of Your BusinessSuderman_lit_EB_Feb09.indd 112/15/08 4:01:51 PMAre you condent in yourestimating and sales skills fortoday’s competitive market?Attend our hands on ElectricalEstimating Course and learn howto systematically put together anaccurate and sellable bid forelectrical work.For an upcoming course near you, visitour website or contact us byTel: 877-275-7194 orE-mail: sudermanestimating@bellnet.ca.www.sudermanestimating.comQuestioning yourRange Hood Exhaust?2/17/09 9:14:05 AMRAYLEWPOWER SYSTEMS INC.Electric Power Generating Equipment Inc.www.raylewpower.comw i t h l e s s .1/15/09 12:11:49 PMFour Marrette ® Black wire connectors now cover the most complete rangeof wire combinations (#22 - #8) for high temperature applications such ashigh wattage lighting fixtures and signs. What’s more, all Marrette Blackwire connectors now feature a redesigned external cap for improved grip,increased torque and easier installation. Get your hands on one today.E-mail us at mrkt_canada@tnb.com for a free sample.w w w . t n b - c a n a d a . c o mTB_lit1_EB_March09.indd 1Now 4 connectors do the job of 6!Steel City ®Adjustable with Ring less.Get a flush fit with drywallevery time!®3/2/09 3:06:05 PMThe Steel City ® adjustable ringfeatures an inner ring thatadjusts from 1/2” to 1-1/2” indepth to accommodate variousdrywall thicknesses. It can beset to the anticipated depthprior to installation and theneasily adjusted after drywallinstallation.For complete product details,consult the “What’s New”section of our web site.w w w . t n b - c a n a d a . c o mAeroflo has the answers!AXC In-Line Duct Fans provide powerful, yet quiet, exhaust.Improve the efficiency of your range hood and keep your kitchenodour free with remote mount AXC fans. Used for eitherprimary exhaust or as booster fans, AXC fans deliver ultra quietoperation and superior performance.Aeroflo offers a superior line of ventilation products and airpurification systems, providing .....better AIRFLOW by DESIGN! TMTel: 905-890-6192Toll: 800-779-4021Web: www.aeroflo.comAeroflo_EB_March09.indd 1TB_lit2_EB_March09.indd 13/2/09 3:10:53 PMElectrical2/2/09 11:49:34 AMB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYCheck outwww.ebmag.comwww. mag.com • MARCH 2009 • 29

CODE FILEBY LES STOCH, P.ENG.Rule 36-110, Tables 33 and 34Rule 36-110 in the Canadian ElectricalCode (CEC 2009) refers us to Table33–Horizontal Clearances fromAdjacent Structures and Table 34–VerticalClearances for Overhead Lines, to provideminimum safety clearances for installationsoperating in excess of 750 volts. Table 33provides minimum horizontal clearancesbetween high-voltage conductors andbuildings. Table 34 provides minimumground clearances for overhead lines.I will review Tables 33 and 34 and theirreference to CAN/CSA-C22.3 No. 1-01,Overhead Systems. Tables 33 and 34 bothapply to voltages up to 69 kV. For applicableclearances above 69 kV, Rule 36-110(2)(a)refers us to the aforementioned CSA overheadlines standard.Based on their operating voltages, both theCEC and the CSA standard provide a range ofminimum horizontal and vertical clearancesfor overhead conductors, but their minimumspecified clearances are different. The tablesfound in the CSA standard usually resultin smaller clearances than those found inTables 33 and 34. So why are these minimumrequirements different?Tables 33 and 34 both contain the note“See Appendix B”; when we turn to AppendixB, we find the following statement: “Thespacings and clearances shown in thesetables differ intentionally from those foundin CAN/CSA-C22.3 No. 1, as explained inClause 4.2.1 of that standard”. But what’sthat all about?If we are fortunate enough to have a CSAoverhead lines standard on our bookshelf, wecan easily find Clause 4.2.1 which explainsthat the clearances shown in the CSAoverhead standard apply to “design limitsrather than clearances for construction orday-to-day operation”. The standard furtherspecifies that “clearances under day-to-dayconditions will be greater than the minimumspecified clearances...”.A footnote under Clause 4.2.1 providesa further clarification: “Clearances specifiedin the Canadian Electrical Code-Part I applyat the time of installation rather than underspecified maximum conditions and aretherefore larger than those specified in theCanadian Electrical Code-Part III for thereasons previously explained in this Clause”.Confused? In other words, Table 33 and34’s minimum installation clearances areconsidered sufficiently large so as to allowfor all expected operating and environmentalconditions, such as prevailing winds, icingand ambient temperature variations. Theminimum clearances specified in the CSAPart III overhead standard, on the other hand,must be increased by a sufficient amount soas to allow for actual environmental andoperating conditions. This dissimilarity inapproach accounts for their differences.If we look even further, we find that CSAC22.3 No. 1 also contains Clause 3.1.1,which states the following for situationswhere more than a single requirement mayapply: “Wherever two or more requirementsapply to any situation, the requirement forthe greater clearance, separation, spacing orstrength shall govern”. Obviously, Clause 3.1.1requires greater clearances for compliancewith other requirements, such as health andsafety regulations for people working in thevicinity of overhead lines.For example, let’s assume that the horizontaldistance between an overhead line anda building has met the applicable minimumclearance specified in Table 33 or Table 9 ofthe CSA overhead standard. Let’s say thatsomeone puts up a ladder to maintain or repairthe building. As I interpret Clause 3.1.1, extraclearance is required to ensure that a personworking on the ladder will not violate theapplicable limits of approach specified in thehealth and safety regulations.Clearly, on their own, the minimumclearances between overhead lines andbuildings as specified in the tables ofthe CEC and the CSA standard do not at alltimes ensure that a worker on a ladder placedbetween an overhead line and a buildingis able to work safely, without violatingother safety rules. As we all know, workingon ladders in the vicinity of overheadlines is often the cause of many seriouselectrical accidents.In my view, Clause 3.1.1 clearly statesthat other requirements, such as limits ofapproach, need to be considered when theCSA overhead standard is applied to minimalhorizontal clearances from buildings. Wealso know that other requirements are notalways considered.One thing that does remain unclear iswhether this rule also applies to Table 33?If not, does the CEC need a rule similar toClause 3.1.1? What do you think?Les Stoch is president of L. Stoch & Associates, specialistsin quality management/engineering services.He is a member of PEO, OEL and IAEI, and developsand delivers electrical code and technical workshopsfor Dalhousie University. He also developed the MasterElectrician training program and exam (Ontario) forthe Electrical Contractor Registration Agency. Visit L.Stoch & Associates online at www.lstoch.com.Always consultthe electrical inspectionauthority in your province/territory for more specificinterpretations.Questions and answerscompiled by the ElectricalSafety AuthorityVisit www.esasafe.comTackleThe Code Conundrum...if you dareSo, you think you know the electrical code, eh?Well, we’ll soon find out if you’re an electrical codejunkie or downright code-clueless. Take a look atthe following questions and check your answers inApril’s Electrical Business.How did you do?3 of 3 – Not only are you smart, you love to show off.2 of 3 – You’re pretty smart, but you still missed one.1 of 3 – Your understanding of these questionsis not up to code.0 of 3 – Did you come up with your answers by playingEenie, Meenie, Minie, Moe?Question 1Luminaires, lampholders and lighting trackin dwelling units shall not be connected toa branch circuit protected by overcurrentdevices rated or set at more than ___ .a) 15 amps c) 30 ampsb) 20 amps d) 40 ampsQuestion 2Rink areas that are provided with positivemechanical ventilation capable of changingthe air at least ___ times per hour shall bepermitted to be regarded as dry locations.a) 1 c) 3b) 2 d) 4Question 3TW75 conductors in raceway are permittedfor the wiring of ceiling outlet boxes on whicha luminaire is mounted.a) Trueb) FalseAnswers▼▼▼to Code ConundrumElectrical Business February 2009Q-1: The bonding conductor for the metal partsof pools shall be permitted to be of aluminumb) False. Subrules 68-058(1) and (7) requirethe bonding conductor for metal parts of apool—and non-electrical equipment associatedwith the pool—to be of copper.Q-2: Where conductors No. 8 AWG or largerissue from a raceway, they shall be protectedfrom abrasion by an equipment hub witha smoothly rounded throat, an insulatedtype bushing, or insulating material thatseparates the conductors from the racewayfitting and affords adequate protection frommechanical injury.a) True. Rule 12-906(2).Q-3: Armoured cable shall be permitted to befished into wall cavities containing concealedknob-and-tube wiring or non-metallicsheathed cable.b) False. Rule 12-612.ADVERTISER INDEXAeroflo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Arlington Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 & 15Brady Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Britech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28Canada Training Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25Caterpillar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Columbia-MBF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18CSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 & 30Falvo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29FLIR Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Fluke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 25 & 27General Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 & 32Hammond Mfg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Hubbell Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Iconopower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23I.E.D. Limited Partnership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19L. Stoch & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Merit Contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12NETcomm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Nexans Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Northern Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Philips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Power Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Raylew Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Schneider Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Standard Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Suderman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Thomas & Betts Canada . . . . . . . . . . . 1, 5, 11 & 29Techspan Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Venture Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17VJ Pamensky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Waltech Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29CSA_EB_Jan09.indd 130 • MARCH 2009 • www. mag.com12/18/08 9:26:15 AM

Built-in features.Built-in simplicity.Fewer add-ons.Easy installation.With so many features already built-in, GE’s new AF-6 Series Drivessimplify installation and eliminate the need for additional equipment.• Built–in process PID controller• Built–in Communication Networks for Modbus RTU,Metasys N2 and Apogee FLN P1for the AF-600 FP drive• Built–in logic controller• Built–in Fan & Pump Macros for the AF–600 FP drive• Built–in DC Link Reactors• Built–in Brake Chopper option• Built–in Class A2 RFI• Built-in energy savings• Built-in auto–tuning• Built-in removable and hot pluggable,illuminated LCD displayChoose AF-6 Series Drives for your next projectand you’ll be building in fewer add-onsand a lower installed cost.For complete product details or to locatethe GE sales representative in your region,call 1-877-259-0941, ext. 2912 or, e-mailus at marketingcdn@ge.com.www.ge-ed.cawww.geelectrical.com© General Electric Company 2008. ecomagination SM is a service mark of General Electric Company.