Harnessing the Power of Commercial Busways: The Future of Electrical Distribution

The demand for efficient and reliable power distribution systems in commercial spaces is skyrocketing in today’s fast-paced world. From bustling shopping malls to high-tech office complexes, the lifeline of these structures is a seamless supply of electricity. Here’s where commercial busways make a grand entry as the modern-day champions of electrical distribution.

What exactly is a commercial busway? Imagine a series of electrical conductors neatly tucked inside a protective enclosure. These conductors play a pivotal role in distributing electricity throughout a building. Unlike traditional cabling, which often resembles an unruly jungle of wires, busways are streamlined, efficient, and modular.

Modularity: A Game Changer

The beauty of commercial busways lies in their modularity. Need to revamp a section of your office? No problem! Busways can be easily reconfigured or extended, saving time, and reducing costs. The plug-and-play nature of busways means that adding or relocating power outlets is a breeze. Say goodbye to extensive rewiring and welcome the era of flexible power distribution!

Compact and Space-Efficient

Real estate is precious, especially in commercial settings. Busways’ sleek design ensures that they take up minimal space, without compromising on performance. This is a boom for architects and engineers, who can now plan spaces without the bulky constraint of traditional electrical cabling. The reduced footprint also translates to better airflow and cooling, which is critical in areas housing sensitive electronic equipment.

Safety and Reliability: Non-Negotiable

Safety is paramount, and commercial busways deliver. The protective enclosure around the conductors mitigates the risks of electrical shocks and arc flashes. Moreover, busways are designed to contain electrical faults, reducing fire hazards. With busways, you can rest assured knowing that the occupants and assets are shielded from electrical mishaps.

Energy Efficiency: Good for the Wallet, Great for the Planet

Finally, let’s talk about energy efficiency. Busways are designed to minimize electrical losses. This means that more of the electrical power is utilized effectively, leading to lower energy bills. Moreover, by optimizing energy use, busways contribute to a smaller carbon footprint. Adopting busways is a step in the right direction for eco-conscious businesses.

To summarize, commercial busways are nothing short of an electrical marvel. Their modular and compact design, coupled with safety features and energy efficiency, makes them an indispensable tool in modern commercial spaces. As we continue to build and innovate, busways will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the electrical landscapes of the future.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

J&P Electrical: Our Story

In September 2007, Jim Ozzello and Phil Delavy decided to take their combined 38 years of experience and form J&P Electrical Company. In 2012, Jason Ozzello officially became a co-owner of the company. Since Phil’s retirement, J&P has been a family-owned and operated business; owners Jason and Jim and brothers David and Jacob all work with the company. Travis Hill, our shop manager, has been a member of the company since its inception and is a longtime friend of the Ozzello family. 

Through the years, we have added many family members and friends to our team, resulting in a deep-rooted passion for the well-being of the company and our customers and vendors alike. We are a team at J&P, and we hope it shows in our customer service and products.

Thank you for allowing our family business to be a part of your business. We look forward to hearing from you!

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Refining IPB Design

Isolated-Phase Bus (IPB) systems are vital in transferring bulk electricity through the grid. For decades, IPBs have been centered around the original designs from General Electric (GE) and Westinghouse, which led the industry. Now, improvements to insulators, mountings, and housings have elevated the model, making them even more reliable. 

IPBs transfer a power plant’s heavy amperage (between 6,000 to 45,000) among the generator’s output bushings and the main step-up (GSU) transformer. Because of their invaluable role, it is crucial that IPBs provide an extreme amount of consistency to ensure power plants function without outages, downtime, or equipment damage.

Now, enhancements made to IPBs aimed to improve the original design include refinements to IPB insulators, insulator mountings, the continuous housing assembly, and more. New IPBs have great -strength and hold high-creep porcelain insulators that can provide better resistance against tracking to the ground. 

While most IPBs require costly space heaters and specialized pressurization systems to control condensation, the new versions have specific dew point ratings, which help to reduce impending failures associated with wet weather.

Other IPB designs require opening the mounting or cover plate before they can be inspected or cleaned. This tedious step increases the risk of damage or incorrect re-installation. The newer IPBs have fewer required insulators per linear span and have a built-in “window” that offers an easy way to visually inspect the interior. 

New IPB models also eliminate the need for a separate ground bus, as the enclosure acts as its own ground plane. Without voltage potential, IPBs can fail due to inter-sectional arcing. Plant engineers and maintenance managers have a duty to safeguard personnel or equipment faults. 

IPBs have never been more reliable thanks to the new-and-improved design. 

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Infrastructure Stocks for Investment

The United States federal government is slated to deliver heavy funding for infrastructure projects in the upcoming years. The onshoring boom starting to take hold makes it a better time than ever to invest in specific stocks focused on infrastructure. 

The infrastructure law will boost the funding of many American infrastructure companies as a growing number look to reshore their businesses to the States. From plane engines to internet service providers, continue reading to discover the possibilities. 

AT&T – T
Internet broadband and mobility (smartphones) are at the forefront of AT&T’s horizon. The company will benefit from the infrastructure bill that is expected to provide $65 billion for expanding broadband internet coverage. T stock has a price-earnings ratio of 7.6 and a high dividend yield of 6.1 percent.

Canadian Pacific – CP
This Canada-based freight-railroad operator is currently merging with Kansas City Southern, one of its major American counterparts. CP has already benefited from solid fertilizer, wheat, automotive, and intermodal volumes, with an overall revenue swelling 19 percent year-over-year. 

Caterpillar – CAT
This equipment giant manufactures pavers, backhoes, and other heavy construction vehicles. CAT gets a chunk of its revenue from selling equipment to oil and natural gas explorers. The farm equipment sector is being boosted by elevated food prices, which fares well for CAT. In the third quarter, CAT jumped 21 percent year-over-year to $15 billion. 

Eaton – ETN
Eaton is well-positioned to benefit from the government’s upcoming electric grid investment due to their development of electrical components and power distribution systems. Last quarter, Eaton soared 75 percent year-over-year in terms of its sector backlog, and the company’s earnings gained 15 percent. 

General Electric – GE
This electrical giant is a massive player in the plane engine market and is expected to grow 10.9 percent between 2021 and 2028. Air travel is growing in popularity, which puts engines in high demand. When GE’s joint ventures are added to the equation, it’s the world’s largest aircraft manufacturer. GE also sells turbines to power natural gas plants, is focused on improving the electrical grids, and will benefit from the government’s investments in the grid. 

Union Pacific – UNP
One of the United States’ largest freight train operators, projects supported by the infrastructure law will be backed by Union Pacific, along with many onshoring goals. The railroad is expected to be adaptable to challenging macroeconomic environments. UNP’s forward price-earnings ratio is 17.5, and the dividend yield is 2.5 percent. 

Vulcan Materials – VMC
One of the biggest providers of raw materials used for construction in America, Vulcan, is slated to receive a heavy lift as a result of road repair, construction of bridges, roads, etc. Materials used include sand, gravel, rock, concrete, stone, and more. Last quarter, 115.9 million of Vulcan’s shares were held or bought, while they unloaded a mere 5.7 million stock shares.

For more details, read the article in full by Larry Ramer at Investor Place.

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Electrical Grid Repair Stalled by Supply Chain Issues

Florida’s power grid was recently demolished by Category 4 Hurricane Ian, and crews are furiously rebuilding using poles, generators, and wire. 

Hurricane Ian was one of the strongest storms ever to hit the United States and the deadliest to hit Florida since 1935. The catastrophic losses totaled tens of billions of dollars, killing more than 150 people. Millions of people were left without power in the storm’s wake.

Industry officials were initially concerned about future storms causing more damage before relief efforts could finish. They also warned that the nation’s supply chain issues could slow the recovery as well. 

A shortage of distribution transformers is plaguing the United States. These are essential for lowering electricity from high-voltage lines and reducing them to levels adequate for home and business. 

Joy Ditto, president and CEO of the American Public Power Association said, “It’s a critical component to the electrical grid that has been in scarce supply for a number of months now. We started to recognize it as a national concern in late winter, early spring, and the situation is getting worse.” 

Ditto explained that transformers are now taking over a year to arrive after being ordered, when it used to take roughly three months. This issue is causing electrical component companies to swap boxes with utilities seeing a shortage. 

About six transformer manufacturers throughout the United States are suffering through labor and raw-material shortages, mostly because the steel used in transformers is made by a single manufacturer. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association questioned the Energy Department about suspending a 2016 efficiency standard which they believe is responsible for the steel shortage. 

Though the shortages plague many companies, the efforts being made are ensuring materials can be shared with those who need them most. Hurricane and other natural-disaster relief are prioritized in terms of supply, crewmembers, and more. 

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Disconnects 101

A safety switch (or disconnect) monitors the electric current in various applications. They are used with major industrial machines such as conveyor belts, line equipment, heavy appliances, and whole-system electrical protection. You may need to disconnect your equipment from the electrical supply for repairs, maintenance, or emergencies. Safety switches monitor the current and detect faults in the electrical infrastructure so that in the event of an electrical leak, a short-circuit, an overload, or equipment failure, the safety switch will nearly instantaneously (within milliseconds) shut off power to the system.

Safety switches are an NEC requirement (National Electrical Code) in all industrial settings and were established by the National Fire Protection Association. The NEC requires that a safety switch be “in sight” or visible and no more than 50 feet from the equipment it controls.

There are many types of safety switches, and the model you need depends on the conditions inside your working environment. Not sure what type you require? Call J&P Electrical, our experienced and motivated team of staff can help, and if we don’t have the product you are looking for, we’ll find it! 

Types of Disconnects:

  • Light duty safety switch (residential, disconnect workshops, hobby rooms, furnaces, and garages)
  • General duty safety switch (residential & light commercial disconnects)
  • Heavy- duty safety switch
  • Double throw safety switch
  • Indoor
  • Outdoor

Disconnect Fuse Types:

  • Fused
  • Non-Fused
  • Cartridge
  • Class T
  • Plug

Disconnect Maximum Voltage:

  • 120VAC
  • 240VAC
  • 600VAC

Disconnect Amperes:

  • General/light duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 400A, 800A
  • Heavy duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 225A, 400A, 600A, 800A, 1200A
  • Double throw – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 600A

Looking for disconnects or other industrial equipment? J&P Electrical is sure to have or be able to find what you’re looking for; give us a call!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Panelboards, Switchgear, & Switchboards

Most people don’t tend to think about it until there is a problem, but the building’s electrical system is so essential that it makes everything else possible. Electrical systems are a mystery to many, so few understand the general basics. Here, we introduce a little about panelboards, switchgear, and switchboards, just so you know, and perhaps help you in keeping things running smoothly.

Panelboards

Panelboards are usually found in commercial buildings due to their large size and the amount of power they can handle. They are designed for single-phase or three-phase applications, depending on your needs. The main function of a panelboard is to distribute power from the source to other devices in your building or facility through breakers designed for specific voltages ranging from 120 to 600 volts or higher, depending on your location. They are the most common circuit breaker box type and are always mounted to a wall. They are used to distribute power to an entire building or other areas. Panelboard covers protect these devices from damage by keeping them dry and clean while providing easy access for maintenance and repair.

Switchgears

Switchgears are used on larger projects, such as factories or warehouses, where there is a need for more than one circuit breaker or fuse within a single enclosure due to increased demand for power or space limitations. This type of equipment is also used in residential homes to automatically shut down the electrical system in the event of a short circuit or other malfunction. Switchgear is for individual components and is the largest of the three. It can be rated for up to 38 kV and run a current of up to 6,000 amps.

Switchboards

Switchboards are typically used where a large amount of equipment requires a lot of power to operate. These devices are designed to control the flow of electricity through multiple breakers without manually closing each one after every use. Like panelboards, switchboards are usually rated for up to 600 volts, but they can manage higher currents, up to 5,000 amps. Switchboards are floor mounted and covered with a panel to provide protection and easy access for maintenance and repair.

Overcurrent protective devices (OCPDs) are devices that send power from the source to the end user. These are sometimes simple devices like light bulbs, or sometimes they’re massive systems that run entire buildings. The three main options for organizing, housing, and utilizing OCPDs are panelboards, switchboards, and switchgear. All three allow for easy access to your power needs in one way or another, but each has its pros and cons that you should consider.

At J&P Electric, we specialize in large industrial electrical equipment, from new surplus to hard to find/reconditioned to like new. Not sure we have what you need? Call us and find out!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

AM Ventures Closes $100M Deal Toward 3D Printing

AM Ventures, based in Munich, secured a $100 million fund specifically for backing industrial and commercial 3D printing applications. 

Spanning three continents between 18 countries, the firm’s portfolio lists Headmade Materials, LightForce Orthodontics, Scrona, and Conflux Technology as a few investments. There are asset managers, family offices, enterprises, small businesses, and existing portfolio startup founders. The fund can use $9.5 million in the ultra-high resolution 3D printing company to aid in semiconductor and display manufacturing.  

Arno Held, co-founder and managing partner at AM Ventures said, “The additive manufacturing industry has shown steady and strong growth over the last decade and startups have played a crucial role during this time. We are convinced that startups will continue to be key in providing the innovation required to finally bring the digital world to the real world, and that they will help produce industrial goods in a sustainable manner and thus strengthen supply chains and tackle climate change.” 

Johann Oberhofer, co-founder and managing partner at AM Ventures said, “The fact that portfolio company founders are now investing in our fund is great validation of our exceptional effort. We are proud of the high-level commitment and trust from prime investors that support us on our mission to leading sustainable additive revolutions.” 

AM Ventures is looking to invest in four categories: hardware, software, materials, and applications. Printing parts and creating a manufacturing business is much more efficient than conventional aspects. 3D printed electric motors, for example, can run further on the same exact battery charge as a conventional electrical motor. Applications for 3D printing are also one of the biggest weapons to fight against climate change. 

Additive Drives is a German startup that developed a specific 3D printed stator for an electric motor. Since the stator is printed, it weighs much less than a conventional motor. With the same battery charge, the 3D printed motor can extend the vehicle range by a large amount. 

Spectroplast is a company that 3D prints silicone for healthcare applications, specifically for surgeries. While other corporations have failed to make industrial silicones, the Zurich Spectroplast business has somehow successfully done the unthinkable. 

3D printed products span the gamut and can be used in nearly any application. The horizon is endless!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Reconditioning Industrial Circuit Breakers

Electrical systems should have an industrial circuit breaker to protect your crew and equipment from danger. These can range from several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. If industrial circuit breakers become damaged, they must be serviced or replaced immediately.

One option for fixing industrial circuit breakers is recognized by the ANSI/IEEE, which is the process of reconditioning. It is defined as “The process of maintaining existing power switchgear equipment in operating condition as recommended by the manufacturer’s instructions, using only the original manufacturer’s recommended replacement parts, without altering the design.” 

Below are the five steps taken to ensure a quality reconditioning process:

  1. Inspection: A visual analysis is performed to pinpoint mechanical damage, missing parts, discoloration, etc. The breaker’s trip settings are recorded, along with the breaker’s overall electrical condition. 
  2. Disassembly: Defective components can more easily be identified after the breaker is deconstructed into its component parts. Components labeled by serial number are not commingled with others. All parts are thoroughly inspected, cleaned, lubricated, repainted, and replated as necessary. 
  3. Reassembly: Components are put back together with precision, ensuring all bearings, pins, retainers, nuts, bolts, and hardware that show wear are replaced with OEM pieces. All contact pivot surfaces (stationary and moveable), operating mechanisms, linkages, and bearings are lubricated based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Afterward, they are adjusted and aligned for mechanical integrity and tension. 
  4. Testing: After the circuit breaker is reassembled, it must be tested to make sure it works properly. The trip mechanism and indicator is tested to ensure proper operation. A record of the amount of electricity required to trip the breaker is also documented. Once they are in working order, low-voltage breakers must be tested as well. Electrical operation including the spring change motor, closing operation, shunt trip, and more are all tested to ensure proper functionality.

Reconditioned breakers are thoroughly verified to be safe. The fundamental role circuit breakers play in the safety of electricians, and electrical equipment is paramount. 

Are you looking for genuine reconditioned electrical parts? You’ve come to the right place! Check out our expertly assembled refurbished products today.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Consumers Energy Announces Plan to Invest $100 Million in Power Grid

With power outages happening more frequently as a result of inclement weather, Consumers Energy has vowed to invest $100 million in upgrades to improve reliability for customers. 

The High Voltage Distribution (HVD) system, nicknamed the “Backbone of the Power Grid,” will receive significant upgrades thanks to the 2022 investment. The HVD enhancements will impact roughly 130,000 customers across the state of Michigan. 

Josh Paciorek, Consumers Energy Media Spokesperson, said, “Our job is to keep the lights on for folks and when those lights don’t come on, they’re frustrated.” Paciorek explained they are taking such proactive steps ahead of the storm season to ensure clients have a more reliable, resilient power grid. 

Over the past number of years, Michigan has seen an increased amount of severe weather, including a recent tornado in Gaylord. These once-in-100-year weather events are becoming increasingly common, with 70 to 80 MPH wind gusts that can wreak havoc on the power grid. 

In an effort to make electricity more reliable, Paciorek said Consumers Energy needs to upgrade and make investments to ensure the grid is more resilient. 

Over 40 miles of HVD lines will be rebuilt, as well as repairing more than 64 miles of HVD line pole-top equipment. Roughly 750 poles will be replaced, and novel technology will enable Consumers Energy to swiftly identify power outages.

The upgrades performed by Consumers Energy throughout 2022 represent a segment of their larger effort to build a better energy grid through its five-year, $5.4 billion Electric Reliability Plan. 

Efforts such as trimming trees, replacing poles and wires, improving substations, and replacing vital equipment are all high priorities, especially with the pressure from climate change affecting the weather and causing more frequent, severe weather storms. 

Since 2018, Consumers Energy has also raised its investment in forestry by over 60 percent. Trees are the number one cause of power outages, so the plan has a section dedicated to increasing spending to keep distribution lines clear. The plan currently outlines more than $500 million throughout five years. 

The reliability plan will also reduce the average length of time that customers are powerless by roughly 15 percent by 2025. 

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/