Building Operating Management Magazine

Product Gallery | Case Study | Showcase: Fire Safety

INDUSTRY DEALS

Danfoss, supplier of HVAC components, controls, compressors and systems, completes acquisition of Scroll Technologies, manufacturer of scroll compressors for HVAC applications.

Leviton, producer of electrical and electronic wiring devices and manufacturer of voice and data solutions, acquires Fiber Connect, a Chicago-based provider of data center fiber optics.

Firestone Building Products, a division of BFS Diversified Products, acquires GenFlex Building Products, a division of OMNOVA Solutions.

Adjustable computer unit is designed to keep monitor, keyboard and mouse at the ergonomically best position in relation to a human body. The TaskMate uses an electric actuator that lifts the monitor platform up and down with two switches. Keyboard, mouse and monitor platforms all can be adjusted separately, and accessories such as telephone holder and paper document holders are available. Unit weighs 60 pounds. Health Postures

Access control exit device is available for new applications or as a retrofit to existing Paneline doors which integrate concealed exit devices, cross door rails and full-width push pads. The Paneline Electric Latch exit device can operate as a stand-alone system or can be incorporated into a building access control system and is compatible with access control keypads, card readers and biometric scanners. Optional backup battery ensures that access and egress are functional even in the event of a power loss. Kawneer

Ceiling enclosure for wireless access points provides a secure and accessible housing for wireless network hardware. The aluminum enclosure is 24-by-24-by-4 inches and has a removable access door with lock. Antennae and other network hardware protrude from access strips. Wiremold/Legrand

LED recessed downlights are the first to be specification grade, according to manufacturer. An alternative to fluorescent, HID and incandescent lamps, LEDs are energy efficient, have a long life, low temperature operation and low operating cost. The new fixtures’ light engine uses an array of parabolic reflectors to overcome some of the technical challenges of using LEDs. An addition to the Architektur series, the 6-inch D6LED consumes 32 watts and has an output of 477 lumens; the 4-inch D4LED uses 15 watts and produces 232 lumens. Prescolite

Motorized drapery system can be installed in tightly curved configurations. The WhisperTrak DT20 motors can handle 58 feet of drapery up to 220 pounds, utilize a standard bus network, and can be operated via wall switches or a 15-channel infrared transmitter. The units feature clean monochromatic design and whisper quiet operation, according to the company. Can be integrated with third-party lighting and A/V systems. MechoShade Systems

Roofing granule is a highly reflective bright white, even when fractured. WhiteArmor granules are listed with the Cool Roof Rating Council for use in roof coatings which pass the California Low Slope Title 24 requirements. National Coatings Corp.

Electronic HID ballast for operation of two 39-watt metal halide lamps is available from Advance. The e-Vision 2 X 39-watt ballast measures 4.7 inches by 3.6 inches by 1.5 inches, enabling it to blend into modern fixture designs. Wattage regulation optimizes color quality. Ballast reduces energy costs compared to incandescent, halogen, and magnetic HID alternatives, and HID technology lasts three times longer than halogen and up to five times longer than incandescent options, according to company. Advance

Communications interface module, SlotServer allows users to interface third-party BACnet IP devices and networks directly to Allen Bradley ControlLogix programmable logic controllers. Standard 1756 format plugs directly into the ControlLogix rack. Module has a text display and status LEDs. FieldServer Technologies

Pan-tilt-zoom camera housing is vandal-proof and designed for extreme hostile environments, including hurricanes. Moondance Ballistic is constructed of 316 stainless steel, has a flat, wiper-equipped UL752 Level 1 bullet-proof ballistic window, and can be surface, wall, ceiling or pole mounted. Extreme CCTV

Entry-level collaboration software based on Microsoft Office SharePoint is designed for MicroStation and AutoCAD systems. The software, ProjectWise StartPoint, makes SharePoint technologies aware of relationships critical in CAD files, allowing users to rely on SharePoint for entire projects. SharePoint features include access control, version control, search, folder-level security, calendars and threaded discussion, and simple project Web site and r-level customization. Bentley

Lighting control system allows fixtures, sensors and wall dimmers to be individually controlled. The Energy Control System integrates daylight harvesting, occupancy control, time scheduling and personal lighting control through a PC-based workspace. GreenBus network allows ballasts and sensors to communicate with the rack- or wall-mounted processor; network also supplies sensor power, eliminating need for separate power supplies and wiring. Encelium

Gas-fired boiler and water heater lines outlined in a 20-page fuel saving innovation booklet includes six case histories. Data measured after installing equipment illustrates how each customer cut fuel consumption and saved money with the products. AERCO

Information packet on sustainable environments outlines how seven manufacturers can help facility executives acquire certification points in three LEED categories: new construction, existing buildings and commercial interiors. Checklists show which points each manufacturer can contribute with its products. Alliance for Sustainable Built Environments

Vinyl flooring designed as an accent pattern to the Fused line of flooring consists of a three-dimensional thread-plate pattern. Urban comes in two colors and 18-by-18 inch tile size, and is designed to create a modern look when combined with wood tiles, according to the company. Parterre

Uninterruptible power supply power management software is the first based on open source code. The Personal Solution Pac 3.0 supports UPSs with Linux/Unix operating systems and is designed for local PC and server applications. The software monitors critical parameters such as battery life and has a real-time graphical user interface including the option to set-up automatic actions in case of power emergency. Software automatically detects USB or serial connections. Manual controls are available so administrators can customize communication ports. MGE UPS Systems

T2 compact fluorescent lamps can be small as a pack of gum. Neolite T2 line has a reduced tube size for a shorter overall length. Lamps come in 10- to 23-watt models, have color temperatures of 2700K, 4100K and 5000K, and generate up to 70 lumens per watt. Each lamp has a 10,000-hour average life and one-year warranty. Litetronics

Solid vinyl tile has built-in anti-fungal and anti-microbial barriers. Health Design Vinyl is heat-weldable, nonporous, and watertight. Available in eighteen color choices and three tile sizes. FLEXCO

Carpet-tile adhesive squares are made from a non-liquid chemically inert polymer. TacTiles are 3-by-3-inch squares that affix to the backing of adjoining InterfaceFLOR carpet tiles to create a ‘floating floor.’ Installers can lay carpet tiles directly on top of most hard surfaces without permanently attaching the carpet to the substrate and with virtually no VOCs, according to the company. InterfaceFLOR Commercial

Visitor management system has a standard Windows-based program that can be used in existing technology infrastructure. System captures visitor details, prints badges including access codes, and provides alerts when a visitor remains in the building after badge expires. Software includes a programmable “watch list” of suspicious or important persons. Available for single-site, multisite and multitenant applications. Attended or unattended check in. Hirsch Electronics

Bird control low-profile track system emits a mild shock to birds as they land on its surface. The shock will not harm birds but conditions them to avoid the area, according to the company. Bird Jolt FlatTrack can be placed on ledges, signs, I-beams, roof peaks, or anywhere birds are landing. Flexible lightweight PVC track carries a 5-year guarantee against U.V. degradation and comes in a variety of colors. BIRD-B-GONE

High-Security Curtainwall Brings Installation Challenge After the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, the federal government established tougher security guidelines for new federal buildings. One of the first projects to incorporate the new measures was the Federal Reserve Bank of Detroit (shown). The blast-resistant curtainwall on the new building illustrates how the more stringent requirements could pose challenges that place a premium on effective project management. The majority of the curtainwall installation occurred within six months, fitting into the 18-month total construction schedule. An 18,998 square foot factory-glazed, steel-clad system from Wausau Windows was custom-fabricated for on-site installation. In addition, the company provided 2,252 square feet of factory-glazed 6250 Superwall, 735 square feet of 8250 Superwall, and 1,910 square feet of 8156 series slopewall. One issue was the weight of the materials required. To meet the bomb blast, bullet and attack resistance requirements, a single lite of glass could weigh up to 1,100 pounds. To ease headaches that could be caused by a bulk shipment of all those materials, shipments were sequenced for easier off-loading and installation. Some parts of the unitized system were pre-fabricated into pre-assembled units that could be crane-lifted into place. Coordination of work among trades was another challenge. The curtainwall was installed over a structural steel tube support system. The two systems — installed by different trades — had to align within a quarter-inch. That required the glazing contractor to specify the exact location for installation of more than 1,000 pieces of structural steel. The newly constructed Federal Reserve Bank in downtown Detroit replaces an existing location built in 1926, one of the oldest branches in the Federal Reserve System.

Four Steps Ensure a VFD Really is Saving Money Variable speed drives installed in conjunction with HVAC systems can cut energy costs for a facility. However, many facilities are losing money by allowing drives in need of repair to operate through a bypass contactor. Drives running on bypass can waste 56 percent or more energy for an HVAC system. Recent studies indicate that 8 to 12 percent of HVAC drive systems are operating in bypass mode. Here are four steps from ABB to properly maintain and inspect all VFDs. Review the situation. An outside or internal resource person should inventory each drive and gather information: the make and model, the age and how long it has been in service, the horsepower, the duty cycle, and the number of drives operating in bypass mode. Replace or repair all drives operating in bypass mode. Create a preventive maintenance program. Make a list of activities which focuses on keeping drives up and running. While the VFD is de-energized: Inspect the environmental conditions, inspect the power components and circuit boards for deterioration, inspect for loose connections, and clean interior components. While the VFD is powered: Vary signal rates from the control system to verify the VFD is responding properly, calibrate the drive to factory settings, and review the drive application for possible upgrades and enhancements. Replace older or highly critical drives before they fail. Drives older than ten years and ones in a highly demanding or critical application should be replaced before failure. ABB

Five Tips for a Healthy School Environment Starting a green cleaning program in a school can improve indoor air quality, reduce children’s exposure to harmful chemicals, and improve working conditions for staff. Excerpted from The Quick and Easy Guide to Green Cleaning in Schools, published by Healthy Schools Campaign, these five steps are measures facility executives can take to implement a green cleaning program. Switch to certified green cleaning products, and train staff on proper application, mixing, dilution and disposal. Introduce green equipment and supplies. For example, use vacuums and other floor equipment with high-efficiency filters to capture microscopic materials. Adopt green cleaning procedures. Change the frequency, technique or time when cleaning is performed. For example, spray product on a cloth rather than the surface being cleaned to cut down on the amount of product used, or adopt an integrated pest management system to cut down on pesticide use. Use environmentally preferable paper and recycled trash can liners. Educate custodial staff, administrators, teachers, students, vendors and visitors about what they can do to promote a healthy school environment. HEALTHY SCHOOLS CAMPAIGN

Attention to Detail Pays Off In Upgrade Planning	Brady The BradyGlo safety guidance system uses signs, self-sticking tapes and anti-slip products to mark egress paths. Photoluminescent markings rely on an external light source for “charging” and require no electricity. When building lights go out in an emergency, the markings will glow for a limited time. Noveon BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system pipes are non-metallic, resist corrosion and can be cut on-site with hand tools. Systems have been exposed to flames -reaching 1600 degrees F for 10 minutes during fire tests. Pipes and fittings are UL-listed and FM approved for light hazard and residential occupancies. Pipe has been tested at twice the operating pressure continuously for more than one year without signs of weakening or failure. Harrington The FireSpy Agent P110 intelligent fire alarm control panel is a UL-listed single-loop panel that comes with a point dialer and supports System Sensor protocol. The panel also comes standard with drift compensation and an auto-learn capability to ease configuration, according to the company. Features a 500 event history record and remote operation of reset, alarm, silence and all drill functions. Victaulic Fire protection valve series FireLock NXT is available in dry, deluge and preaction. The series eliminates air-to-water differentials, allowing a smaller air compressor to be used. Systems are set at 13 psi of air regardless of water pressure and trip at 7 psi. Valves feature a smaller footprint and simplified trim configuration. Diaphragm-operated body means fewer moving parts, less weight and less maintenance, according to the company. Gamewell-FCI The Engineering & Applications catalog contains fire alarm system product and component data sheets with product descriptions, features, approvals and specifications. The catalog contains 175 documents and is available in hard copy or CD format. STI The Stopper II tamperproof fire alarm pull station cover mounts directly to the wall over an existing pull station. When the polycarbonate cover is lifted, a self-contained alarm at 105 dB or 95 dB sounds. When service to the pull station is required, the cover’s 9-volt internal alarm may be deactivated. HILTI The Facility Assurance Containment Team program is designed help health care facilities maintain compliance with codes and standards for penetrations into fire-rated assemblies. The program includes training using an interactive CD-ROM with a modular, video-based firestop installer training. Firestop Installation Permit Program helps specify firestop, train installers, and document installed systems. Fike The CyberCat 254 fire alarm system uses digital peer-to-peer bi-directional communication to achieve a response time of as little as half a second. In addition to alerting the alarm panel, each networked device can generate detailed information and perform critical process management involving HVAC, elevators, doors and voice evacuation systems. Up to 128 panels can be networked. Jessup Glo Brite photoluminescent safety guidance system includes exit signs, egress strips, tape, dots and arrows, safety signage and non-slip tape for stairwells. In event of emergency, stored ambient light is released from the markings’ pigment, making them immediately visible. Non-toxic, non-radioactive, and UL-listed. Markings will last maintenance-free for 25 years or more, according to the company. 3M Novec 1230 fire suppression fluid is a halon alternative with zero ozone depletion, Global Warming Potential of 1 and an atmospheric lifetime of five days. Fluid is stored as a non-pressurized liquid and becomes a gas upon discharge. It is non-conductive and fast-evaporating. Permalight Photoluminescent exit signs are non-electric and non-radioactive. They release their NFPA 101- and IBC-code compliant luminance should building power fail. They are UL-listed, EnergyStar-compliant and have a life expectancy of more than 25 years, according to the company. Faraday VCP-MP VoicePlus voice evacuation system panel has six-channel distributed audio and operates in conjunction with a fire alarm control panel. Unit has an integrated fire phone. Messages up to four minutes in length can be recorded. Stryker Evacuation chair model 6253 is constructed of lightweight aluminum with extendable lift handles, dual wheel locks, and color-coded controls. Folding rear lift handles are designed so the chair can ascend stairs or go over obstacles. With a capacity of 500 pounds, the chair weighs 34 pounds. The unit folds and can be stored on a wall-mount. Gentex SSPKCLP Series ceiling mount, selectable candela speaker and strobe offers a candela selection of 15, 30, 75, 95 and 115 dB. Available with red or white faceplates, the low-profile device mounts to a standard 2¹/₈-inch deep back box. The product meets ADA and NFPA requirements for audio, visual and voice communications, and is UL-listed.
Specified Technologies New 44 version of EZ-Path fire rated cable pathway for penetration through fire-rated walls has the capacity for 244 Cat 5 cables, more than twice the capacity of previous versions. Systems are UL-classified and available for common floor and wall constructions with ratings up to four hours. Silent Knight Farenhyt IFP-100/1000 Voice Integration Panel for small to mid-size facilities combines a fire alarm panel with a voice evacuation system. It includes 127 addressable devices that allow the user to determine which device has been activated or needs attention. Panels use a distributed amplification scheme so power sources can be linked directly to appropriate areas of evacuation, rather than having a complex wiring system. The product is scalable from 50 to 400 watts. System Sensor SpectrAlert Advance series of audible/visual fire notification appliances are for indoor and outdoor use and can be ceiling- or wall-mounted. The products feature field-selectable candelas, high sound output for greater coverage and a rotary switch for horn-tone selection. The plug-in design allows pre-wiring of mounting plates and the ability to check wiring continuity before installation. Cornell Series 4200 audio/visual rescue assistance system includes annunciator panel and call station. Voice communications can be established by depressing call station button which alerts annunciator panel, causing an alarm tone of 90dB. The caller need not take any other action to communicate with control station. LEDs on call stations and panel inform occupants of the call status. Vandal-proof call station is an option. DuPont The DuPont FE line of clean agent fire extinguishants offers an alternative to Halon-based products. The products cease the combustion process through heat absorption and chemical interaction, are safe for people, leave no residue, and are electrically nonconductive and non-corrosive, according to the company. Simplex Grinnell An LED electronic readerboard, the TrueAlert text messaging appliance displays two lines of text to instruct occupants in case of emergency when audible messages can’t be heard. Wall-mounted or suspended from the ceiling, the board displays up to 32 pre-programmed emergency text messages. Honeywell Power Fire system power supplies, HPF24S6 and HPF24S8, deliver six or eight amps through four class-B or two class-A output circuits, and can be expanded to four class-A circuits with a quick-mounting expansion module. Both units supply fully regulated and filtered power. They feature built-in strobe synchronization protocols for a wide selection of strobes. Wheelock The SAFEPATH4 multi-function single-channel supervised paging, messaging, background music delivery and emergency voice evacuation system has 24 VDC battery backup. Comes with a digital voice messaging system with eight standard messages, hand-held microphone and battery charger. Expandable to 5280 watts. Speaker outputs of 25V or 70.7V. GE Security Genesis series of emergency signal strobes, horns and speakers are all about the size of a deck of playing cards. Output levels can be changed using sliding selectors inside the device, and settings remain visible after the cover is closed. Horns can be silenced while strobes still operate due to a double-wire technology. FlexHead Flexible sprinkler connections are seismically qualified for use in commercial suspended ceilings. The system is FM approved and UL-listed, requires no o-rings, and has adjustable height and sprinkler alignment. The pipes are 100 percent flexible stainless steel hose rated to 300 psi and are compatible with any FM/UL sprinkler. Siemens Fire The FP-11 FirePrint multisensor detector has both photoelectric and thermal inputs. Each detector has a dust-resistant photo chamber, a solid state non-mechanical thermal sensor, and microprocessor-based electronics. Software can identify and disregard false input from cigarette smoke and radio frequency and electromagnetic interference. EVAC+Chair MK3 EVAC+Chair is a collapsible emergency evacuation chair for individuals with disabilities. It uses a belted, continuously working brake/traction system that slows descent proportionally to the weight of the passenger. On stairwell landings, the weight transfers to two main wheels for pivoting to the next flight of stairs. The chair requires only one person to operate. Chair weighs 20 pounds. Folded size is 38-by-21-by-8 inches. NOTIFIER The ONYX digital voice command audio evacuation, paging and firefighter’s telephone system uses eight audio channels to deliver emergency paging while broadcasting multiple evacuation messages anywhere in a facility. Preprogrammed paging groups ensure that each group of building occupants will receive information most relevant to them. Technical Glass Products FireLite clear ceramic glass is wireless, fire-rated up to 60 minutes and passes the hose stream test. It is ³/₁₆ inch thick and can be installed in standard fire-rated frames. The visible transmission rate for standard version is 88 percent, but the product is also available in a patterned version that obscures the view. Available in sizes up to 23 square feet.