Toronto Electricians and Electrical Contractors

Each of us can point to a new technology that changed life as we knew it. The TV remote. The PC or Mac. Streaming music and video. In the recent business world, disruptive technologies have included mobility, sensing, analytics, IoT, IoT Edge and, last but not least, cloud . The cloud was—and remains—huge. The phenomenon of cloud computing led to life-changing digital services such as a revamped Netflix business model. It also launched a frenzy of corporate efforts to move enterprise IT applications to the cloud, which delivers highly scalable computing power, low-cost data storage, and easier access to that data. Now, more than a decade later, we’re all taking another look at the big brain that is the cloud. For sure we need the cloud, especially for processing huge volumes of data to build, test, and perfect AI models . But does it make business sense to push everything there? When you consider critical environments such as heavy processing (Oil & Gas, petro chemicals), nuclear...

For panel builders, getting the right electrical power distribution solution is critical. Following IEC 61439 and manufacturer specific instructions about assembly and derating is essential in achieving this, as is using the correct conductor. Doing so ensures that panels safely function now and for decades to come despite pollution, humidity, temperature rise and more. For a complete exploration of this is so, see the introductory article . When working with distribution systems up to 3200A, panel builders have a choice. You can opt to use customized solution, such as a flat busbar. Alternatively, you can use a pre-fabricated solution. If you go the custom route, you will have complete control over – and responsibility for – the distribution system. This means selecting a busbar, for example, after ensuring that it is the correct type and grade of conductor. Then you must make sure it is correctly sized for the current and frequency involved, per IEC 61439 or a local standard. Y...

If you own or manage any large building, plant, or public infrastructure, you depend on reliable electrical distribution services. You also need equipment to be as sustainable as possible in terms of maximum lifespan and minimum cost of ownership. Most switchgear manufacturers and design engineers have recognized that new approaches are needed to protect equipment from increasingly extreme environmental conditions. Medium voltage (MV) equipment is getting particular emphasis due to its critical role in keeping operations running, as well as it typically being more exposed to the elements. In this two-post series, we’ll discuss some of the conditions that expose MV equipment to special conditions that may influence its ratings and lifespan. We’ll also look at some of the advances in testing and technology that are helping switchgear survive those conditions, lasting longer with higher levels of reliability. Understanding service condition changes in IEC 62271-1 Electrical switchgea...

In my last post, we looked at how the cost, reliability and quality of electricity can present significant risks to your business if they are not managed. Whether you’re operating commercial buildings, manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, or data centers, it’s important to understand that lowering your electricity bills is more complicated than just trying to use less energy. The key for optimizing your electrical energy costs is to operate your facilities with a clear understanding of how your utility charges you for electricity, so that you use power in the right way at the right time. It’s also easy to appreciate how power interruptions and poor power quality can have a serious negative impact on your operations – potentially costing your business significantly. So, it’s quite surprising that so many corporations do not invest in managing these risks the way they do other business risks. For those companies who recognize the need to minimize these risks, the good news is ...

The UN weather agency recently announced that carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere increased at record-breaking speed in 2016, meaning that rapid cuts to CO 2 and other greenhouse gases are now needed to avoid “dangerous temperature increases” by 2100 that would far surpass targets set in the  Paris climate accord . The IEA estimates that buildings currently account for about 33% of global energy use – more than industry or transportation – and 20% of energy-related GHG emissions. By 2050, 66% of the world’s people will be living in cities, consuming over 80% of the world’s electricity. Driven by these trends, your facility team may be facing corporate mandates and government regulations aimed at making your building, campus, or plant more efficient and sustainable. But you’re also likely dealing with higher capital and operational expenditures, and increasingly complex building systems. But there’s cause for optimism. The IFMA estimates that with active controls, a...