By: RK Electrical

Although prefabrication methods have been used for centuries in the construction industry, they are new to the electrical industry. Prefabrication, which means to construct in advance, is the practice of connecting components in a warehouse and delivering completed or partially completed units to a construction site for installation. Building in a controlled environment adds value in many ways and increases safety by limiting work in elevated areas.

As electrical contractors search for new ways to increase productivity, some are beginning to develop prefabricated electrical systems to expedite installation and increase their ability to take on more sophisticated and complex projects. Electrical prefabrication includes a wide variety of components from switches and receptacles to internal floor and wall equipment.

BENEFITS OF ELECTRICAL PREFABRICATION

RK Electrical can design an entire prefabricated electrical system for your project or simply build and deliver stand-alone assemblies. Our team will evaluate each project to find you the most cost-effective solutions. We also provide preconstruction services, which can decrease the time and labor required to complete the project.

By: RK Electrical 

Over the next two decades, energy consumption is expected to increase by 30%, according to Oil & Gas Journal, meaning the need for better energy efficiency is necessary to keep up with our power-dependent lifestyles. To move towards a more energy-efficient future, corporations need to measure how effectively their electricity usage is through power factor.

WHAT IS POWER FACTOR?

Power factor is the ratio between the real power (what is used for heating, lighting, etc.), reactive power (what is pulled to create magnetic fields) and the apparent power (real and reactive power combined) consumed by an alternating current (AC) electrical system.

Power factor measures how efficiently electrical power is converted into useful output. Ideal power transmission is 100% efficiency or a power factor of one, anything less means that additional power is needed to achieve the same task. Unfortunately, a power factor of one is nearly impossible to sustain. Electrical devices connected to a network may use or produce power, causing variation in the power factor. If the variation isn’t corrected, higher currents are pulled from the network which can lead to:

Major causes of poor power factor are inductive loads on equipment. Inductive loads resist changes in current and create lag.

HOW IS POWER FACTOR CORRECTION PERFORMED?

Adding power factor correction capacitors to the electrical system is the simplest way to improve the power factor. These capacitors act as reactive current generators, which help to offset the non-working power used by inductive loads and improve the power factor. Capacitors are cost-effective, easy to install and the return on investment is typically achieved within one to two years of usage.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF IMPROVING THE POWER FACTOR?

The power distribution system in a network can be overloaded by excess current. Improving the power factor can offer many benefits, including:

RK Electrical performs a variety of electrical work including repair, installation and equipment replacement for all types of electrical systems. Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com today for a free consultation.

By: RK Electrical 

An arc flash is a type of electrical explosion that occurs when electric current travels through the air between two conductors or a conductor and the ground. More specifically, the arc flash is the heat and light created by an electrically energized arc.

What Causes An Arc Flash?

What Are The Dangers?

Arc flash injuries can be violent and often cause serious injury and even death.

FIVE MOST COMMON DANGERS TO WORKERS

Because of these dangers, The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed specific approach boundaries designed to protect employees while working on or near energized equipment. The further from a potential blast that a worker is, the lesser chance they have of being severely injured.

Facility managers and safety teams should work together to explain risks to employees.

Qualified employees should always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, use insulated tools and follow safety precautions when performing work on electrical equipment. The overall most effective way to eliminate the risk of an arc flash is to de-energize equipment before working on it.

DANGERS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

It is in the best interest of business owners to regularly maintain their equipment, continue safety training for employees and provide appropriate safety precautions for anyone working with electrical equipment. Some of the most common dangers for business owners resulting from an arc flash are:

NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Compliance standards require building owners to complete an ARC flash risk assessment on the facility’s electrical distribution system to minimize the risk of arc flash, shock hazards and injuries. RK Electrical can conduct these complex studies and provide the reporting you need for safety compliance. Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com to schedule a risk assessment.

By: RK Electrical

MAY IS ELECTRICAL SAFETY MONTH

Have you been testing, cleaning and maintaining your equipment? Electrical Safety Month was created in the mid-1990s by Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) to raise awareness of potential electrical hazards and fire safety. This is a great time to remember the importance of regularly testing, cleaning and maintaining your equipment.

Electrical equipment is used in most businesses today, but they often don’t think about the potential hazards that come along with it. If improperly used or maintained, equipment can cause serious shock, burns or even death.

10 TIPS FOR BUSINESSES TO CHECK ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
  1. Have a licensed, qualified heating technician regularly maintain your heating system and electrical equipment to prevent future problems.
  2. Routinely change heating system filters to keep air properly flowing.
  3. Verify that ground fault circuit interrupters are installed in areas near water, including bathrooms, kitchens, basements and outdoors.
  4. Do not overload outlets, electrical circuits or motors. If it feels hot, is making a strange noise, sparking or smoking, turn it off immediately. Do not turn back on until it has been repaired by a licensed technician.
  5. If an appliance appears to be damaged or repeatedly blows a fuse, unplug it and contact a technician for repair or replacement.
  6. Avoid using light bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage.
  7. Light switches that feel hot or spark should be immediately turned off and inspected by a qualified electrician.
  8. Make sure that all circuit breakers and fuses are properly labeled.
  9. Inspect extension cords for wear and tear frequently. Immediately replace any that show signs of damage.
  10. Do not run electrical cords through walking areas to avoid tripping hazards.

Training and preparation are some of the most important practices a business owner can implement to increase electrical safety. Workers should be properly educated to ensure a workplace that is safe and free from electrical hazards.

5 TIPS FOR EMPLOYEES TO WORK SAFELY
  1. In the case of an emergency, such as equipment malfunction or electrical fire, make sure that you know where the power source is and how to shut it off quickly.
  2. If a power or extension cord feels warm, unplug it. This is a sign that it is overloaded.
  3. Don’t use electrical appliances around wet areas. Also, be sure to dry your hands before using electrical appliances.
  4. Always unplug equipment by gripping the plug and not the cord.
  5. Never touch someone who has been electrocuted and is in contact with a live wire. Contact emergency services right away.

If you experience electrical issues, hiring a licensed electrician for repairs is the safest route. It is also important for a qualified technician to perform new installations and routine maintenance. Having a licensed professional examine your facility can help to identify potential risks and create a plan to fix the problems.

RK Electrical offers electrical installation, wiring, repair, system testing and cleaning, energy efficiency upgrades and more for all types and sizes of facilities. All our electrical services are performed to ensure your facility is safe and up to code. Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com to schedule electrical maintenance or repair.

By: RK Electrical 

What is Infrared Thermography?

Infrared thermography is the science of measuring temperature through detectors that are sensitive to infrared energy and displaying the result as an infrared image. All objects emit thermal energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation. The hotter the object is, the more intense the infrared radiation emitted.

How Does it Work?

Most equipment failures experience a significant rise in temperature long before the failure occurs. Infrared thermography detects heat which can help identify deteriorating pieces of equipment before they fail.

With this technology, thermal information can be captured from operating equipment at a safe distance. This allows viewing of irregular temperature readings under normal operating conditions and the ability to pinpoint the problem before the equipment breaks down.

Infrared thermography is ideal for a wide range of situations because it does not require direct contact with the equipment. It is most useful in testing parts that are unable to be shut off, difficult to reach, hot, moving, dangerous or might be damaged through direct contact. Infrared cameras are also very helpful in detecting energy or moisture-related problems in a building.

Top 5 Benefits of Infrared Thermography
  1. Live Testing: Testing can be performed while equipment is functioning, reducing service disruption.
  2. Detects Defects and Increases Energy Efficiency: Quickly spotting defective areas of energy loss or excess moisture allows for a faster fix and better energy efficiency.
  3. More Effective Maintenance: By being able to pinpoint specific areas of need rather than testing every component, maintenance can be done more quickly and efficiently.
  4. Low Inventory Costs: Since infrared thermography spots areas that could become a problem before they do, parts can be ordered as needed.
  5. Real Time Results Reduce Downtime and Increase Safety: Using technology with predictive abilities and real-time recording allows companies to plan for maintenance shutdowns. This also keeps workers safe by preventing potential injuries from equipment failure.

RK Electrical uses infrared thermography to identify electrical problems, locate thermal patterns and detect hot spots in motors, breakers and switchgear enabling. We analyze this data to improve systems, enhance environmental comfort and increase building efficiency. Conserving energy in this way saves our customers money.  If you are interested in having our team inspect your equipment with infrared thermography, contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com for more information.

By: RK Electrical 

When you compare light-emitting diode (LED) lights to conventional lighting methods, you’ll find that LEDs are the smartest solution. LED light bulbs bring together positive and negative charges to create energy which is then released in the form of light. The result is a fast source of light that is instantaneous and reliable.

Top 10 Benefits of LED Lights:

  1. Long Life: LED lights have an exceptional life expectation. They can last up to 11 years with continuous operation, or 22 years with part-time operation. In other words, if you leave a LED light on for eight hours per day, it would take twenty years before needing replacement.
  2. Energy Efficient: LEDs are estimated to be up to 90% energy efficient when compared with traditional lighting sources. This means that nearly all of the electrical energy is converted to light, while a minimal amount is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat.
  3. Eco-Friendly: LED lights are free of toxic chemicals and are completely recyclable. Most conventional fluorescent light bulbs contain materials that are dangerous for the environment and are not recyclable.
  4. Minimal Emissions: LED lights produce little infrared light and close to no UV emissions, which makes them highly suitable for materials that are sensitive to heat. They are also great for UV-sensitive objects, such as those in museums, for example.
  5. Design Flexibility: LEDs can be combined in any shape to produce efficient lighting. They can be dimmed–resulting in a dynamic control of light, color and distribution–which can be used to affect mood.
  6. Focus: LEDs can be designed to focus their light to a specific location, but can also be used for multi-directional ambient lighting.
  7. Instant Light: Once turned on, LED lights come to full brightness without requiring time to warm-up. This is particularly helpful with traffic and signal lights.
  8. Unlimited Switching: LED lights can be switched on and off frequently without affecting their lifespan, emissions or instant brightness. Traditional lighting can take several seconds to reach full brightness and switching them off and on frequently reduces their life expectancy.
  9. Low-Voltage: A low-voltage power supply is sufficient for LED illumination, which makes them easy to use in outdoor settings with a solar-energy source. This is very useful in remote or rural areas.
  10. Durable: LEDs are extremely durable rugged and resistant to shock, vibrations, external impacts and extreme temperatures.

LED lights are available in a variety of colors, which makes them adaptable for use in almost any environment or lighting situation. They are offered in base colors such as red, green, blue and amber and can be blended together to produce millions of other color options as well.

RK Electrical can perform LED lighting retrofits on nearly any type of facility that will lower your energy usage and save on utility costs. Retrofits often yield utility company rebates and tax deduction incentives for building owners. Lighting upgrades in commercial facilities average a project payback period of a little over two years, with up to a 45% return on investment.

RK’s Energy Audit and Savings Program can also significantly decrease operating and equipment costs while increasing facility value. Our program includes:

Visit our web site for more information or contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com to discuss your electrical needs.

By: RK Mechanical

Working outside during the winter can leave construction workers susceptible to hypothermia, frostbite or trench foot, a decaying of the feet due to prolonged cold and wet conditions. In extreme cases, workers without proper personal protection equipment can also suffer shock that could even lead to death. Not only do workers need to stay warm and dry to prevent health risks, but it’s also important to eat properly, stay active and keep an eye on coworkers.

Productivity is often delayed due to harsh weather. So, work hours should be scheduled during the warmest part of the day. Below are some recommendations to stay warm, healthy and safe during the winter season.

Winter Clothing and Layering Reduce Injury Risks

Clothing should be selected to suit temperature, conditions, duration of the activity and location. Wearing proper clothing and layering can reduce sweating and the risk of injury. It’s best to avoid cotton material, as once it gets wet from rain, snow or sweat, it will begin to extract heat out of the body. Some alternate material choices are fleece, wool, Thinsulate, nylon and polypropylene. Weather can change rapidly, therefore it is important to plan and dress accordingly.

The top nine types of clothing to wear while working in the cold:

  1. Thermal insulated coveralls
  2. Thermal polyester underwear
  3. Fleece or wool liner for hard hat
  4. Insulated gloves, mittens should be worn for extreme temperatures below -17 degrees
  5. Wrap-around eye protection
  6. Scarves
  7. Thick socks: layer two pairs to stay warmer longer, but avoid a tight fit which restricts circulation
  8. Insulated boots
  9. Waterproof/windproof external layers

Warm Break Areas Help Re-energize

When spending long hours exposed to the elements, a warm area to rest will help workers warm up and re-energize. Breaks are of the utmost importance, but without a warm and comfortable place to rest, breaks can be useless. For long-term construction projects, setting up a warming shelter is a must. Temporary tents with portable heaters can be used for smaller projects.

Incorporate a Buddy System to Stay Safe

Avoid traveling or working on your own unless someone knows your route and estimated time of return. Workers in frigid weather can show signs of uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech and erratic behavior. Keep an eye on your peers to help them stay safe.

If a co-worker is showing early signs of Hypothermia, like uncontrollable shivering, apply these treatments to help:

If more severe signs are present, such as slurred speech or erratic behavior, call for emergency help right away. While waiting for help to arrive, provide warm drinks, extra layers and heating blankets, if available.

Hydration and Good Snacks are Important in the Winter

Save Your Skin from Freezing Temperatures

It’s especially important to stress these simple points to people who may not be accustomed to cold temperatures. Holding safety meetings to help workers identify the signs and symptoms of cold-related illness and injuries and training them how to prevent and treat these injuries can save lives.

At RK, we take safety seriously and empower our employees to stop work if unsafe conditions exist. We encourage our employees to take responsibility for their own safety, as well as that of those working alongside them. Working responsibly in cold weather is no exception.

RK assesses how every aspect of our work integrates to improve your project. From conception through completion, we streamline the process while maximizing value. The combined skill set of our seven business units makes us the region’s most powerful single source for mechanical contracting, custom manufacturing, steel fabrication, prefabricated construction, facilities services, electrical work and water treatment solutions. If you would like to know more about our safety procedures or have questions about what we can do for your business, contact us at communications@rkindustries.com.

By: RK Electrical

Switchgear is the framework used for managing, protecting and isolating electrical circuits and equipment and includes things such as disconnect switches, fuses, circuit breakers, off-load isolators and more. It is high-powered electrical equipment which must be maintained properly in order to ensure a reliable electricity supply.

Switchgear Prevents System Damage and Service Interruptions
During normal operation, switchgear allows generators, transmission lines, distributors and other electrical equipment to switch on and off. However, when a short circuit occurs on any part of a power system, a strong current flows through the equipment, threatening damage and interruption of service. Switchgear is designed to detect these types of faults and disconnects the unhealthy section from the rest of the system to prevent further damage.

Testing, Inspection and Planned Maintenance Help Avoid Dangerous Risks
Malfunctioning switchgear can be dangerous. A blown circuit box can cause a power outage, resulting in downtime that may require a maintenance professional to repair or replace the equipment. Switchgear and breaker malfunctions can also cause major fires, explosions resulting in injury or facility closure. Therefore, switchgear testing, inspection and a planned maintenance program is essential. Switchgear which is labeled “maintenance-free” still requires testing and maintenance.

Identify Potential Issues by Cleaning and Torqueing Switchgear
By scheduling a planned system outage to clean and torque switchgear, your organization can help identify electrical issues, reveal flaws and reduce the risk of potential system failures. This process includes correcting any electrical drawing inconsistencies, torqueing connections, cleaning and inspection, performing tests, planned or unplanned repairs and system upgrades. It is recommended to perform this service every three years.

RK Electrical can perform switchgear maintenance operations and make repairs and adjustments to help you avoid emergency repairs. To schedule cleaning and torqueing maintenance for your switchgear contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com.

By: RK Mechanical

Large-scale construction requires collaboration across numerous disciplines. It’s rare to find a contractor who has the capability to perform multiple trades in-house. For the successful execution of a project, effective planning is essential. From project conception to completion, construction teams must consider zoning, scheduling, budgeting, bidding, safety, transportation of materials, logistics and much more.

Trade-Specific Roles and Responsibilities

The architect designs and develops construction drawings including structural, electrical and mechanical requirements, interior design and lighting. Their final drawings are detailed and include specifications and materials for a construction manager to estimate the total cost of the project. During construction, they monitor work and submit new drawings if changes are made. They also prepare final acceptance documents at the completion of the project.

Construction engineers direct construction projects. They handle everything from the design of the construction project to making sure that everything is going as planned on-site.

General contractors are responsible for providing all of the necessary material, equipment, labor and services for the construction of the project. They typically hire special trade contractors to perform all or some of the work.

Mechanical contractors* install and maintain technologically advanced and energy-efficient HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing and piping systems. The following trades fall under mechanical contracting:

Plumbing: Plumbers install and maintain pipes and mechanical systems for water supply, gas, drainage, sewerage and HVAC systems.

Piping: Pipefitters fabricate, assemble, maintain and repair large high-pressure piping systems.

Sheet Metal: Sheet metal workers install HVAC ductwork and related work.

Construction laborers perform a variety of tasks from erecting and restoring structures, maintaining stormwater, drainage and sewerage systems to excavating, clearing and leveling sites. Laborers are skilled workers who are proficient with pneumatic tools, hand tools, blasting and smaller heavy equipment.

Carpenters and joiners construct, erect, install and renovate structures and fixtures made of wood, plywood, wallboard and other materials and cut, shape and fit the parts to form structures and fittings.

Electricians* specialize in electrical wiring of buildings and equipment. They design, assemble, install, test, diagnose and maintain electrical systems and equipment.

Glaziers are responsible for measuring, cutting, installing and removing glass for windows, doors, mirrors, shower doors, skylights, display cases, facades, interior walls, ceilings, tabletops and more.

Heavy equipment operators operate heavy machinery such as cranes, hoists, lifts and winches to lift, move and place materials, equipment and people onto building and construction sites.

Insulation installers are responsible for all insulating materials, protective coverings, coatings and finishes to mechanical systems.

Ironworkers* fabricate and erect structural steel and other metals as well as repair metal products using various welding techniques. They also position and secure reinforcing bars and mesh which are used to reinforce concrete.

Landscapers create or renovate outdoor spaces by planting lawns, flowers, trees and shrubs. They also construct hard landscaping features such as paths, patios and decks.

Masons are skilled in brick laying and concrete finishing which includes pouring and finishes concrete for floors, stairs, ramps, footpaths, bridges and more.

Painters are responsible for the painting and decorating of buildings which includes the application of paint, varnish or wallpaper to protect and decorate surfaces of structures.

Plasterers apply plaster and fix partitions, suspended ceilings, fire rating systems, acoustic tiles and apply decorative and protective coverings of plaster, cement and similar materials to the interiors and exteriors of structures.

Roofers specialize in roof construction including the application of materials such as tiles, sheets and shingles that weatherproof buildings.

Tilers lay various types of tiles on external and internal surfaces, such as walls and floors, to provide protective and decorative finishes.

With the large number of diverse trades that may be involved in a construction project, establishing collaboration is particularly important. All large commercial projects are likely to involve the coordination of complex information, procedures and systems.

RK gives construction, commercial and industrial customers a reliable, single source for mechanical and electrical contracting, custom manufacturing, steel fabrication, prefabricated buildings, facilities and equipment maintenance and water treatment solutions. For more information about what RK can do for your next construction project, contact sales@rkindustries.com.

*RK has professionals who specialize in these fields that are available to collaborate with you on your next construction project.

By: RK Electrical 

When organizations plan their facilities maintenance budgets, electrical maintenance is often overlooked as most funds are allocated to HVAC, climate control and plumbing systems.

It’s good to reassess the budget, because proper preventive electrical maintenance helps organizations stay compliant with NFPA 70E, the standard for electrical safety in the workplace. Maintenance also ensures a safe electrical system and work environment that complies with OSHA electrical safety standards.

Organizations that perform electrical maintenance also save money on utility bills. It is estimated that U.S. businesses lose roughly $4 billion a year in energy costs due to inefficient equipment and operations. Improving energy efficiency can lower utility costs up to 30{daeb8d662f58e4975bc93960761d671bdf0aa2ad049ea8a375d2717d280ef80b}.

The key components of a preventive electrical maintenance program.

Infrared thermography scanning every three years
Infrared thermography is an effective method of scanning your electrical system for “hot spots” in motors, breakers and switchgear that indicate problems. The data shows what’s needed to improve systems, enhance environmental comfort and increase building efficiency. Infrared thermography scans should be performed every three years and are ideal before cleaning and torqueing as it may point out issues that can be fixed in the cleaning and torqueing process.

Cleaning and torqueing electrical equipment every three years
The lugs in electrical gear constantly get heated up, then cooled off, causing repeated expansion and contraction that, over time, loosens them up. It’s important to have a qualified electrician clean electrical panels and switch gear, and then torque the lugs and any other loose components to meet the manufacturers’ equipment specifications.

Without maintenance, the loose lugs can start arcing, increasing the risk of fires and shock hazards. Motors can burn out, which can cause outages and electrical issues throughout the building. The building will also suffer from decreased energy efficiency. If you don’t have qualified electrical personnel for three-year cleaning and torqueing, you can easily outsource it under a Planned Maintenance Agreement with a provider like RK Electrical.

Lighting audits and improvements annually
Compromised lighting systems can have a serious negative impact on energy efficiency. Your organization should perform a lighting audit once a year by checking all lights in the facility. Do the lights and sensors work? Do the switches work properly? Is the timing system set to on/off at the right times? If not, your facility could be losing lots of money!

Additionally, entry and exit lights near doors and in stairwells are required work properly at all times, per NFPA code, and these lights can go out quickly because they have a short battery life. Batteries require checking and they may need EM balancing. Check these lights first for NFPA compliance, or have a licensed electrical professional from RK Electrical do it!

Why outsource?
Outsourcing electrical preventive maintenance can ensure that maintenance occurs on regular schedule and is conducted in a thorough manner, and also fills staffing gaps if your internal team lacks electrically qualified personnel.

Questions? Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com.