From EC&M Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are designed to disconnect power to a branch circuit whenever the unit detects an imbalance of current between the energized conductor and the neutral conductor. Since the 1970s, GFCIs have saved thousands of lives and helped cut the number of home electrocutions in half. In recent years, the NEC has expanded the requirements for these devices to many other areas outside the home. Introduced in the 1999 edition of the NEC, arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) provide enhanced protection against fire hazards in the home known as arc faults. An arc fault is a...

Why are some of the largest and most cost efficient companies turning to solar for energy consumed by on-site facilities? It’s pretty simple; they want to continue to be the largest and most cost efficient companies. Iconic brands like WalMart, Costco, IKEA, Kohl’s, and Walgreens are synonymous with proficient management, low overhead and profitable business models. And now they’re deploying record level solar systems because they see a smart investment comprised of decreasing installation costs, innovative financing options, and the ability to stabilize future energy expenses. When the price of commercial solar systems dropped almost 14 percent in 2012, advantageous companies...

Nick LaMonto, piping superintendent at Chicago-based Atomatic Mechanical Services, threads pipe every day. As an experienced piping professional, he knows the importance of tool longevity and what it can cost when working with an inferior product. We put Nick’s machines to the test, threading both types of steel standard pipe: continuous weld and electric resistance weld.   First up, Nick threads continuous weld standard pipe. “It cuts awful nice,” Nick said, “without any hard spots.” It’s a relief to Nick, who knows hard sports in the pipe will break the cutting wheel and he can’t afford to beat up his threaders...

We want to welcome the newest addition to the Wheatland team, Dennis Fowler. Dennis has accepted the position of Southeast Regional Sales Manager, Electrical Division. Dennis has more than 25 years of industry experience and most recently worked for Cooper Wiring Devices (a division of Eaton). He has excellent relationships with electrical distributors and contractors throughout the southeast. At Wheatland, he will be managing a network of sales agents and working closely with key accounts throughout the southeast to ensure all actions are aligned with long-term strategic growth initiatives. Wheatland is committed to driving stronger local distributor partnerships throughout North America....

Globalizing business was the common thread laced throughout the North American Fire Sprinkler Expo™.  The inaugural event, hosted by the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) in conjunction with the Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association (CASA) and the newly formed Mexican Fire Sprinkler Association (AMRACI), provided excitement and opportunity for those looking to extend beyond the borders. In a statement, NFSA’s new president, Russ Fleming, said: “I am absolutely delighted that both CASA and AMRACI have agreed to partner with NFSA to host what will be the first ever North American Fire Sprinkler Expo. By bringing together fire sprinkler industry interests from all over...