Electrical Apparatus June 2024 - SALES & SERVICE

Electrical Apparatus

More than Motors

At the pinnacle of service with

Apex Industrial Automation

The British pump awards of Romeoville, Ill.

Coaching vs. managing EASA Convention exhibitors

Improving EV accessibility

Wallace Brithinee looks back

EA Reader Profile

20 Foodie adventures

For Krista DeSocio, there’s nothing more satisfying than bringing happiness to others with food lovingly made

By Colin Gregory-Moores, EA Contributing Writer

Electric Avenue

25 Improving EV accessibility

Addressing the challenge of providing charging options for multi-unit dwellings

By Maura Keller, EA Contributing Writer

Conventions & Trade Shows

28 On display in Vegas

Highlights of the products and services being shown at the convention of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association

By the Electrical Apparatus staff

Service & Sales Companies

41 At the pinnacle of service

Apex Industrial Automation has reached the top of its class by selling service and staying on the hunt for acquisitions

By

Charlie

Barks,

EA Managing Editor

Industry History

45 Raising expectations and spreading the word Dr. Wallace Brithinee looks back at changes in the industry and the role Brithinee Electric played in helping to bring them about

By Colin Gregory-Moores, EA Contributing Writer

Motors & Generators

51 Heat index warning

Resistance temperature detectors in motors and generators

By Chase Fell, EA Contributing Writer

Finance

55 M&A on a roll

At a time when middle-market mergers and acquisitions are strong, it’s good to know the basic rules of the game

By William H. Wiersema, CPA, EA Contributing Editor

Energy

57 Updates on the U.S. energy workforce

Employment trends and funding needs are revealed in recent reports and statements

By Charlie Barks, EA Managing Editor

Safety & Health

60 Phased-out products

Servicers and operators of HVACR systems need to familiarize themselves with new restrictions on Refrigerant-22

By Bill O’Leary, EA Contributing Writer

Electrical Manager

62 Coaching vs. managing

The world of sports provides us with a useful analogy we can use when coordinating the work of others

By Bill O’Leary, EA Contributing Writer

Pump It Up

69 Pumped up across the pond

An annual awards ceremony recognized the best and most innovative in the British pump industry

By Kevin Jones, EA Senior Editor

— Krista DeSocio photo

COVER PHOTO: By Charlie Barks, at Apex Industrial Automation of Romeoville, Ill. Mike Dragusica (left) and Mike Assell go over some company records.

The Editor’s Comment

What time is it? Game time, at least for EASAns.

Coming next month in Electrical Apparatus:

Our annual electric vehicle issue; CWIEME and Hannover Messe reports; changes in the works for NEMA MG 1; cruising the Autobahn in a hybrid electric auto.

Read Electrical Apparatus online

The entire contents of this issue are available online. Scan the QR code below:

The annual convention of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association is no longer just approaching; it’s right around the corner. The 2024 EASA Convention and Solutions Expo, live from Las Vegas at Caesars Forum and Harrah’s Las Vegas, will be complete by the time you receive your next issue of this magazine. It marks an exciting time of year for so many of our readers, as well as many of our advertisers — who make up a crucial part of this edition by way of the Exhibitors’ Section (page 28). Look for familiar names and their latest, greatest products and o erings before you head to Vegas June 23-26.

It’s becoming our custom at EA to make each issue as diverse as possible. A lot of this is due to our gifted sta branching out from areas in which they already excelled. For example, Chase Fell (page 51) covers resistance temperature detectors in motors and generators, and Maura Keller discusses “Improving EV accessibility” for EV owners (page 25). Kristine Weller provides another “Know Your Industry” (Institute of Engineering and Technology, page 10), as well as a proper memorial to Doug Moore, a former EASA award recipient who sadly passed away earlier this year (page 18).

Regular contributor Bill O’Leary provides two articles this month: “Phased-out products” in the Safety & Health column (page 60); and “Coaching vs. Managing” in the Electrical Manager article — something that sports fans might nd particularly compelling (page 62).

You might also notice two contributions from Colin GregoryMoores, another monthly contributor whom EA is recognizing as more blessed to have on board with each passing day. This month, Colin gives us yet another immersive “Reader Pro le,” one that’s perfect for EASA month (page 20). You might know Krista DeSocio from her bright presence at the ICC International booth during the annual EASA conventions. What you may not know is she has a passion for cooking. Colin dives into Krista’s story, as he does with Wally Brithinee, another household name for EASAns, in an extended special feature this month (page 45).

As usual, Senior Editor Kevin Jones is the glue that secures the entire, nished product of each issue you receive.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue, from our writing sta to our devoted advertisers, who bring each issue into bloom.

We look forward to seeing you all at Caesars Forum, or along the Strip, at the end of the month. We’d be remiss without wishing you some good luck!

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Earnings reports reveal steady, if slow, recovery

As quarterly earnings reports rolled in during April and early May, several major suppliers to the electrical industry reported that an ironing-out of supplychain kinks and a smoothing of di cult geopolitical currents were re ected in their gradually improving bottom lines.

Global electrical and automation supplier ABB reported April 18 that orders for the rst quarter of the year were slightly lower than the same quarter last year, while revenues were about even. Orders, at $8.97 billion, were 5% lower than the rst quarter of 2023, while revenues, at $7.87 billion, were e ectively unchanged. Gross pro t, however, was up 8%, to $2.94 billion. The rst quarter’s performance “shows the year has started o well with stronger-than-expected order momentum, record-high margin, and strong cash delivery,” said CEO Björn Rosengren.

Emerson Electric Co. of St. Louis, the industrial manufacturer and provider of engineering services, reported May 8 that net sales for its scal second quarter were up a whopping 17%, to $4.4 billion. President and CEO Lal Karsanbhai said, “Our second-quarter performance, especially our gross margin performance, demonstrates the strength of our transformed portfolio and our Emerson Management System” — a strategy introduced in 2022 that focuses the company on three “value-creation opportunities”: organic growth, portfolio management, and “operational excellence.”

Regal Rexnord Corp., the Milwaukeebased manufacturer of electric motors and power transmission components, having completed the sale of its Industrial Systems business May 1, reported May 6 that net sales for the quarter ended March 31 were $1.55 billion, for an adjusted gross margin of 36.5% compared with an adjusted gross margin for the same period last year of 33.5%. CEO Louis Pinkham described this as being “well on our path to 40%.” Automation & Motion Control net sales were $400.2 million, an increase of 96.9%, or a decrease of 4.5% on a pro forma organic basis. Net sales for Industrial Systems were $118.8 million, a decrease of 13.3%, or a decrease of 12.6% on an organic basis.

The steady growth in sales at Grainger continued, meanwhile, as the Chicagobased distributor of industrial products reported April 25 that sales for the rst quarter, at $4.2 billion, were up 3.5%

compared with the same quarter last year. Gross pro t, at $1.6 billion, was up 2.1%. “We’ve produced solid results amidst a slow but steady demand environment,” said D.G. Macpherson, Grainger’s chairman and CEO. “Looking to the remainder of the year, we are well-positioned to achieve our guidance outlook as we work to provide a awless experience and deliver tangible value for our customers.”

WEG Electric Corp., the manufacturer and provider of services in electric engineering, power, and automation, on May 2 reported “solid operating margins and return on invested capital” during the rst quarter. Net operating revenue, at 8 billion Brazilian reals (about $1.5 billion U.S.) grew 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year, up 6.5% in the domestic Brazilian market and 2.5% in the external market. “In Brazil,” the company said, “industrial activity has shown good results in some of the markets where we operate, with short-cycle goods, such as serial automation equipment and gearboxes, showing good demand distributed across di erent segments.”

French electrical manufacturer Schneider Electric on April 25 reported “strong demand dynamics across most sectors and geographies, particularly in data centers and infrastructure.” First-quarter revenues were €8.6 billion (about $9.2 billion U.S.), up 5.3% organically and up 1.3% on a reported basis. In North America — which accounted for 35% of the company’s rst-quarter revenue — revenues of €2.6 billion represented reported growth of 8.9%. According to the company, strong contributions to the quarter’s revenues came primarily from three regions: China, India, and the Africa and Middle East region.

Industrial automation provider Rockwell Automation of Milwaukee stumbled somewhat in the most recent quarter, reporting May 7 that sales for the second quarter of its scal year, at $2.13 billion, were down 6.6% year-over-year while organic sales slid 8.1% for the same period. Annual recurring revenue, however, was up 20% year-over-year, and acquisitions contributed 1.4% to growth. “There is more excess inventory at our customers, particularly machine builders, than we originally expected,” explained Rockwell chairman and CEO Blake Moret. “As a result, we are not yet seeing the accelerated order ramp this scal year and are reducing our full-year guidance.” Despite this lower outlook, he said, the company is gaining share across its most important product lines. — Kevin Jones

Let’s Solve Your Problem

How charges are affected by efficiency

Please explain how electrical demand may be influenced by the use of more efficient induction motors.

We understand that energy usage and kilowatt draw are reduced, but their relationship to the demand charge is not clear.

Although the newer electronic meters allow electrical demand to be measured in kVA, most utilities use kilowatts as the measurement. When motor efficiency goes up, motor power factor — which may either rise or fall with higher efficiency design — doesn’t influence demand measurement or demand charges, because they are not based on current but on power only.

If demand is measured in kVA instead, then what happens to demand can vary with the motor power factor. For example:

>Higher efficiency and higher power factor: Motor current drops, as do both energy usage and demand.

>Higher efficiency and lower power factor: Motor current may go up, go down, or stay the same. Energy usage will go down in any event; demand may or may not.

> Higher efficiency, without starting torque reduction: Means higher inrush current, which may lead to peak demand charges, depending on starting cycles.

Higher motor efficiency despite power factor

The overall power factor in our plant runs 99% to 100% because of capacitor correction. Some recent literature tells about improving power factor to gain higher efficiency.

We’re looking at replacing a 500 hp motor and could choose a higher-efficiency unit, but since our power factor is so high, it doesn’t seem that we would gain

anything by paying the higher price for that premium motor. What do you think?

A higher motor efficiency always means a direct saving in kilowatt-hours on your monthly energy bill. That saving will apply, at a given motor load, regardless of either the motor or the system power factor. A higher overall power factor means higher efficiency in the distribution system (lower losses in conductors, transformers, or switchgear); it has nothing to do with motor efficiency, or vice versa.

Additionally, if this is a low-voltage motor, the Dept. of Energy regulations may require it to be a premium efficiency motor and you won’t be able to purchase a new 500 horsepower motor. If the motor is medium voltage, there are no efficiency requirements.

Standard behind nameplate’s nominal efficiency

We understand the NEMA standard provision for marking motor efficiency on the nameplate. This is supposed to be a “nominal” efficiency, and there is a specific minimum or guaranteed value associated with it even though that minimum value may not also be on the nameplate. Some industrial customers have asked us about motors of theirs on which the nameplate efficiency isn’t identified as “nominal” and the number itself doesn’t agree with catalog information they’ve seen for the product. How can they tell what the nameplate efficiency really represents?

They can’t, which is why NEMA worded the standard (MG1-12.58) to require that efficiency be identified on the nameplate as “NEMA Nominal.” This wording completely ties down the method of efficiency determination.

The exceptions to this are small electric motors covered by the Dept. of Energy (1/4 –3 hp, single- and three-phase, NEMA two-

digit frames). These small electric motors will be marked with an average efficiency number as required by the DOE.

Without this phrasing, whether or not the value agrees with a catalog, no one can be sure what a nameplate figure means, or how accurate it may be.

If the efficiency on the nameplate and printed data are incorrect, the manufacturer may be in violation of DOE regulations on represented data.

Two-speed motor or adjustable-speed drive?

For a centrifugal fan load that runs most of the time at reduced flow, we’ve been told that an adjustable-speed drive could save a lot of power compared to a fixedspeed motor and damper control. This particular fan runs either at full flow or at reduced flow that would be the equivalent of about 55% full speed.

Wouldn’t a simple two-speed high-efficiency motor be just as effective, and at less cost?

A conventional variable-torque motor and two-speed controller may have a lower cost than the adjustable-speed drive. No efficiency standards apply to multispeed motors, however, so it may not be so easy to tell just what you’re getting.

Look closely at the energy usage both ways. Suppose the fan needs 50 hp at full speed. You would use a 50/12.5 hp motor. At half speed, the fan probably draws only about 7 hp.

So the 12.5 hp motor rating is supplying only 60% load. How will its internal losses at that load compare with a physically smaller — and less expensive — 50 hp motor running at 7 hp with the ASD?

Dept. of Energy studies show that a variable torque load will save 30% or more energy, so this is the best choice for long-term savings. — Edited by the EA staff EA

Associations o er fresh training resources

School may be out for summer, but that doesn’t mean people looking to hone their skills in electromechanical repair need to let up on their search for knowledge and expertise. Two major associations on both sides of the Atlantic serving companies in electromechanical service have some fresh o erings for members who are looking to improve their skills.

To begin with, “An Introduction to Rewinding Electric Motors” is available as an online video from the U.K.’s Association of Electrical & Mechanical Trades. The video course — available to members only — costs £300.00 (about $375 U.S.) to purchase. Its purpose is to take the student step by step through the rewind process, ensuring along the way that best practices are adhered to while the integrity and e ciency of the machine isn’t compromised. Because the course is lmed, viewers can see “exactly how an experienced winder handles the machinery,” according to the AEMT. The course is intended for novices.

In the course, the association’s lead trainer, Karl Metcalfe, gives a detailed narration to describe what he’s doing, as he’s doing it. Metcalfe explains how a rewind can be completed using the best practice as outlined in the AEMT/EASA Good Practice Guide to Rewinding Electric Motors and in IEC 60034-23, The Repair, Overhaul and Reclamation of Rotating Electrical Equipment.

These are the highlights of the course, as described by the AEMT:

Essential Tools. “We start the learning process by recommending the tools needed to rewind an electric motor, not least a notepad and pen!”

Identifying a motor. “A guided tour of the motor, critical dimensions, and its nameplate data outlines the vital information needed to carry out a rewind.”

Best Practice. “The course guides learners with the best practices expected from an AEMT service center

Multi-angled video capture. “Shots of the rewind process have been recorded from multiple angles, providing an intimate and thorough learning experience.”

Expert support. “Members of the AEMT can access one-to-one bespoke technical support from our lead trainer before, during, and long after completion of the course.”

Another useful educational resource o ered by the AEMT — one designed for the more experienced as well as for newcomers — is the Hazardous Area (Ex) Repair Course, typically o ered twice per month, with some sessions online and others in person. The course consists of two separate presentations, one more general in outline and the other a refresher course. Inperson versions of this course are scheduled to be held over the next six

VISIT US @ THE EASA SHOW BOOTH 529

— Illustration by Bing generative AI

A three-day structure begun in January of this year mixes experienced rewinders with newcomers. “The refreshers now have a whole extra day to ensure they are up to speed, and newcomers can network and learn with seasoned competent repairers,” the AEMT explains. The online version of the course gives the student the exibility to learn at his or her own pace. Like any other tool, this online educational resource from the AEMT is constantly being evaluated for possible improvement.

The AEMT is an IECEx-Recognized Training Provider, which means that its training complies with IECEx Unit 005. Members of the AEMT are entitled to ongoing technical support. More about the AEMT’s training resources may be found at www.theaemt.com/learn-with-aemttraining-academy.html.

Another association that’s constantly improving its training tools is the Electrical Apparatus Service Association, which announced in the April 2024 issue of its Currents newsletter that it was adding management content to its Online Learning Center, which already included many useful resources that we’ve described in Electrical Apparatus.

The nearly 30 hours of management training the association began rolling out April 1 consists of management courses “designed to hone skills that address today’s most critical business, management, and leadership challenges,” according to EASA. The training is the result of “steep discounts” negotiated with the American Management Association on behalf of EASA members, EASA says.

There are 80 sessions in the new management section of the Online Learning Center, each about 20 minutes in length. They are grouped as 34 courses along these ve tracks:

Analytical intelligence. Six courses including 13 lessons covering analytical thinking, creativity, innovation, decision making, managing data, and strategic thinking.

Introduction to business basics. Six courses including 13 lessons on customer focus, introduction to nance, becoming a “trusted advisor,” management projects, and the American Management Association’s Legal Guide for Managers and Supervisors and Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace.

Professional e ectiveness. Eight courses including 24 lessons on numerous topics, including communication, con ict management, presentation skills, time management, and organizational politics.

Relationship management. Eleven courses including 24 lessons. This track covers topics that may be “softer” than such things as data management and nance but are no less essential to the management of a business, including techniques to in uence others, emotional intelligence, giving and receiving feedback, managing change, and creating a motivational climate.

Training and facilitation. Five courses totaling 103 minutes in length on such things as experiential learning, facilita-

tion skills for trainers, and the “ADDIE Model,” an approach to training whose acronym stands for “analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate.”

The new management training courses are available to EASA member companies that have a General Learning subscription and to students who have a subscription to the Electromechanical Repair Technician Certi cate Program. You can nd more about EASA’s training resources at https://easa.com/training. — Kevin Jones EA

Electrical bearing damage causes unplanned downtime

Variable frequency drives (VFDs) are used to control pumping systems. But VFDs create a motor shaft voltage that discharges through the bearings, blasting millions of pits in bearing surfaces. Both motor and pump bearings are at risk. These discharges oxidize the bearing grease and cause bearing fluting, premature failure, and costly downtime.

Protect motor bearings with AEGIS® Shaft Grounding Rings

By channeling VFD-induced discharges safely to ground, AEGIS® Shaft Grounding Rings prevent electrical bearing damage. Proven in millions of installations worldwide, AEGIS® Rings provide unmatched protection of motors against electrical bearing damage, motor failure, and unplanned downtime.

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Know Your Industry

From telegraphs to STEM. STOP.

Institution of Engineering & Technology

Founded: 2006, merging many older organizations

Headquarters: Futures Place, Kings Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2UA, U.K.

Annual dues: Approximately $234.18 (£188 U.K.) for most memberships

Phone: +44 (0)1438 313311

Website: www.theiet.org

The story of the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET) begins with a telegraph. Two practical electric telegraph models were invented and patented around the same time by Sir William Fothergill Cooke and Sir Charles Wheatstone of the U.K. and Samuel Morse of the U.S. The expansion of railroads in the U.S. led to the boom of new transportation networks using the telegraph. Back in the U.K., the telegraph grew in popularity, so during the latter half of the nineteenth century, telegraph engineers still had only two options for joining a scientific society: the Institution of Civil Engineers or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.

Professional societies were the precursors of trade organizations. By 1871, the Society of Telegraph Engineers was founded to better meet the needs and technical standards of the industry — motivated in large part by Major Frank Bolton. Less than ten years later, with the increase of electrical services, the Society of Telegraph Engineers changed the organization’s name to the Institution of Electrical Engineers

Flash forward to 2006 and the IET is the official organization of the eventual merger of the Institution of Electrical Engineers and more than 35 other professional societies since the Society of Telegraph Engineers. There are 154,000 members from 148 countries with membership categories

Please turn to page 12

INTRODUCING:

William Fothergill Cooke and Charles Wheatstone’s electric telegraph (“needle telegraph”) from 1837, now in the London Science Museum. The Institution of Engineering & Technology can trace its lineage all the way back to technology of this type.

— Wikipedia photo

ranging from member, technician member, associate, student, apprentice, to fellow.

Associate membership is reserved for those in a related field or anyone sharing a passion for engineering, while the Fellowship level is for the vanguard engineering professionals with at least five years of experience. International membership is divided into almost 100 local networks — the IET’s term for chapters — that make up the IET in the Americas, Asia Pacific, EMEA, and South Asia. The organization also holds offices in China, Hong Kong, India, and the U.S. outside of the U.K. headquarters.

Rebecca Gillick, external communications manager for IET, shared that member “benefits include support with professional registration to obtain chartered engineer status; networking and knowledge sharing via our many local and technical networks; access to leading publications, journals and archives, and our wide-ranging in-person and virtual events – many of which are filmed and available on demand to our members.”

These events cover everything from educational courses to conferences. Back in May, two notable IET events that took place were the Electrical Safety Management Training Course and the ACDC Europe AC and DC Power Transmission European Industry Symposium in the Netherlands. While it did not include the band AC/DC performing, the conference hosted two days of technical programs on the latest transmission innovation and research. Twentythree industry experts presented on topics like grid development, policy, and the high-voltage d-c supply chain. The ACDC Europe Symposium’s sponsors included some familiar names in the electric motor industry, too.

IET members also benefit from a global network of engineering resources. The main website connects members to the IET digital library and the IET library and archives, which is “a purpose-built repository housing core collections and the rare books libraries,” according to the website. Many of the archive materials preserve the history of science and technology.

The most notable of the archive collections is the Faraday Collection, consisting of “notebooks, correspondence, and manuscripts covering [Michael Faraday’s] travels in Europe with Sir Humphry Davy, his chemical notes, and some 600 letters from many famous names in science and current affairs,” according to an online catalog.

Outside of membership benefits, IET provides educational resources and support for the next generation of STEM professionals. The organization offers funding for FIRST LEGO League and free curriculum resources for teachers of STEM students, aged four to nineteen. For college students, the IET educational support extends to undergraduate programs. More than 1300 undergraduate programs in the U.K. have IET accreditation.

The STEM encouragement efforts are most visible in the IET campaigns. Gillick said that IET runs a variety of campaigns aimed at “promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across the engineering sector and inspiring the next generation of engineers and technicians.” She highlighted the annual “Engineer a Better World” campaign, with its competition focused on children four to thirteen submitting designs to a themed engineering topic.

All the strides made by IET show how far the organization has developed since the early days of the Society of Telegraph Engineers, now encapsulating a wide variety of engineers. So, in honor of its beginnings, the most fitting end to this look at the Institution of Engineering and Technology can only be this homage to the telegraph message: STOP. — Kristine Weller EA

Recent initiatives in electric grid cybersecurity

As the technology we daily rely on becomes more sophisticated, so too does the methodology of the people who want to rip us off or otherwise do us harm. Nowhere is this more evident than in the electric utility industry, an enormous national target whose vulnerabilities cyber criminals are constantly trying to exploit.

According to the North American Electric Reliability Corp., the number of points in electrical networks vulnerable to attack is increasing at a rate of about 60 per day, making the job of cyber security an endless game of whack-a-mole. “It’s very hard to keep pace with addressing all those vulnerabilities,” Manny Cancel, senior vice president of NERC, told Reuters in April.

Hacking attempts on the U.S. grid appear to be accelerating, and geopolitical events are only contributing to the increased rate. “Geopolitical conflict, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the war in Gaza, have dramatically increased the number of cyber threats to North American power grids,” Reuters said. Threats from China also appear to be on the rise.

Remember a couple of years ago when people were taking shots at utility substations and committing other types of vandalism? That’s still going on, although we may not hear about it as much as we did back then. Assaults on the grid have remained high since 2022, with about 2,800 reports of gunfire, vandalism, and other attacks on electrical networks last year, according to the North American Electric Reliability Corp.

Despite the continuing high rate of cyberattacks — or perhaps because of it — electric utilities still “face serious difficulties in finding and retaining the skilled professionals needed to defend themselves,” according to a report published last year by Marc Casanovas and Aloys Nghiem of the International Energy Agency, an energy forum comprising 29 industrialized countries under the Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation.

While digital technologies improve energy security in some ways, they also introduce the risk of new entry points for cybercriminals, Casanovas and Nghiem warned. “Recent cyberattacks in the electricity sector have disabled remote controls for wind farms, disrupted prepaid meters due to unavailable IT systems, and led to recurrent data breaches involving client names, addresses, bank account information, and phone numbers,” they said.

Cyberattacks are often followed by spikes in demand for cybersecurity professionals. This suggests that utilities aren’t adequately planning ahead for future attacks, Casanovas and Nghiem said. Once utilities hire cybersecurity professionals, the utilities often have difficulty retaining them, because salaries for such specialists in the utility industry lag other sectors, such as finance and insurance.

To solve this problem, Casanovas and Nghiem argue, utilities need to make cybersecurity a “core element of their business strategy.” Regulators and other policy makers need to be involved too, working with utilities in a coordinated way in order to reach desired outcomes.

Now we’re seeing indications that such coordinated efforts are underway.

The U.S. Dept. of Energy‘s Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response announced in late March that it has earmarked $15 million in funding to establish six university-based electric power cyberse-

— Illustration by Bing generative AI

curity centers “that will foster collaborations across the energy sector to address gaps in energy security research and provide cybersecurity education programs.”

Each university will work with energy sector owners and operators, vendors, and national laboratories to conduct cybersecurity research and develop training “that will meet the needs of the energy workforce in their regions,” according to the announcement.

The partner universities are: the University of Connecticut at Mans eld, Iowa State University of Ames, the University of Pittsburgh, the Illinois Institute of Technology of Chicago, Texas Tech University of Lubbock, and Florida International University of Miami.

The idea behind the funding is to help each university’s cybersecurity center tailor its research to t the needs of its region. “Their research will combine multidisciplinary expertise, such as power system engineering and cybersecurity, to nd solutions that will reduce the risk of power disruption resulting from a cyberincident in an energy delivery system,” according to the DoE.

While each university is being encouraged to explore how it can tailor its research to t the needs of its particular state or region, the universities are also looking at ways to produce results that can be more broadly applied. Iowa State University, for example, plans to investigate real-time cyber situational awareness for distribution management systems. The University of Pittsburgh plans to use digital twins to evaluate the e ectiveness of protections against cyberattacks.

The University of Connecticut announced April 9 that it would soon launch the Northeast University Cybersecurity Center for Advanced and Resilient Energy Delivery, or CyberCARED. The Center’s mission: to “simultaneously grow the U.S. cyber workforce and build the expertise we need to take on the evolving cyber threats to our nation’s energy systems,” according to Puesh Kumar, director of the Dept. of Energy’s O ce of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response.

In addition to conducting research and developing training programs, UConn’s cybersecurity center will engage in “highlevel research to further development of new tools for the energy sector that consider the distinctive characteristics of the northeast’s electric system and infrastructure network,” according to the university. — Kevin Jones EA

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Calendar

Update your calendar with these upcoming trade shows, conferences, and other events.

• June 22-26, 2024 — 2024 ASHRAE Annual Conference, JW Marriott Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Ind. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and AirConditioning Engineers, www.ashrae.org/ conferences/2024-annual-conference-indi anapolis.

• June 23-26, 2024 — EASA Convention 2024, Caesars Forum and Harrah’s Casino Hotel, Las Vegas, Nev. Electrical Apparatus Service Association, https:// easa.com/convention.

• June 24-27, 2024 — Hydraulic Institute 2024 Technical Meeting, Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront, Portland, Ore. The Hydraulic Institute, www. pumps.org/event/2024-technical-meeting.

• August 7-9, 2024 — Safety 2024 Conference & Expo, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, Denver, Colo. American Society of Safety Professionals, https:// safety.assp.org.

• August 7-9, 2024 — NSPECon24, Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley, Raleigh, North Carolina. National Society of Professional Engineers, www.nspecon.org.

• September 9-14, 2024 — IMTS 2024, McCormick Place, Chicago. International Manufacturing Technology Show, www. imts.com.

• September 15-17, 2024 — EGSA Fall Conference, Hyatt Regency Bellevue, Bellevue, Wash. Electrical Generating Systems Association, https://egsa.org/Events/ Future-Conferences.

• September 15-18, 2024 — Power 2024, the Madison Hotel, Washington, D.C. American Society of Mechanical Engineers, https://event.asme.org/power.

• September 19, 2024 — Golf Day 2024, Portal Golf & Spa Resort, Tarporley,

Cheshire, U.K. British Pump Manufacturers Association, https://bit.ly/BPMA-golf day.

• September 25-27, 2024 — AEE World Energy Conference & Expo, Music City Center, Nashville, Tenn. Association of Energy Engineers, https://aeeworld.org.

• October 7-10, 2024 — The Battery Show North America, Huntington Place, Detroit, Mich. The Battery Show, www.the batteryshow.com/en/home.html.

• October 9-11, 2024 — IFMA World Workplace 2024, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio, Tex. International Facility Management Association, https://worldworkplace.ifma.org.

• October 15-17, 2024 — Fabtech 2024, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla. Fabtech Event Partners, www.fabtechexpo.com.

• October 28-30, 2024 — Offshore Windpower Conference & Exhibition, Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, N.J. American Clean Power Association, https://cleanpower.org/offshore-wind power.

• November 21, 2024 — AEMT Awards 2024, Doubletree by Hilton, Coventry, U.K. Association of Electrical & Mechanical Trades, www.theaemt.com/ems-event-cal endar/aemt-awards/categories.html.

• February 10-12, 2025 — AHR Expo, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fla. The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, www.ahrexpo. com.

• July 19-22, 2025 — EASA Convention 2025, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, Nashville, Tenn. Electrical Apparatus Service Association, https://easa.com/convention/future-easaconventions. EA

Edited by Kevin Jones

The Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront hotel, site of the Hydraulic Institute’s 2024 Technical Meeting June 24-27, is a short walk from Portland’s scenic Willamette River.

— Marriott International photo

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Names & Faces

The Manufacturing Institute — the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers — announced that Sarah Dale, plant general manager at International Paper, has been recognized for a 2024 Women MAKE Award.

This annual national awards program honors women “who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory floor to the C-suite,” according to TMI.

“I was delighted to be selected for the Women MAKE Award,” Dale said. “For the organization to take time, which is in short supply, to consider me for this notable award, was a treasure, but then, for an external group to review my nomination alongside impressive leaders and recognize my work — I am honored.”

Eric Gudino, formerly security supervisor at Applied Signal Technology, has been appointed vice president of security at Fornax Advanced Materials, a developer of advanced materials for defense and aerospace applications.

The U.S. Navy veteran will lead a team of security professionals at Fornax-AM and manage the company’s security program, the Chicago-based company said.

“He brings a wealth of experience in managing and overseeing the execution of industrial security programs at the highest levels of classification,” said John Havermann, president and CEO of Fornax-AM. “Considering the nature of his military and industry experience, he appreciates, firsthand, the pre-eminence of the security function and compliance to the strategy and values of our company.”

Gudino brings decades of experience in protecting sensitive national security data, critical infrastructure and company assets.

Fargo, N.D., electrical distribution company Border States announced the retirement of CEO David White, effective March 31.

White began his career in the electrical industry with a degree in engineering from Ohio University and roles with Cooper Industries (now Eaton) and Square D (Schneider Electric) before joining the team at Shealy Electrical.

During his years with Shealy, White worked alongside leaders, including Bill DeLoache and Brent Spear, as the family-owned company grew into 17 locations in North and South Carolina, conducting business both in the U.S. and abroad.

With White’s retirement, Jason Seger, president at Border States, took on the role of CEO.

“Like most, I found the electrical distribution industry by accident, and I’m so glad I did,” White said. “Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from so many in the industry who were willing to share their knowledge and experience. I’ve had the privilege to work for great companies and develop lifelong relationships with teammates, customers, vendors, and distributors. The future of the electrical distribution industry is bright, and I have confidence in Border States and Jason’s leadership.” — Charlie Barks EA

Doug Moore, industry leader and former chairman of EASA

Craig Douglas “Doug” Moore, 62, died in Georgetown, Ky., on Jan. 21, Electrical Apparatus has learned.

He was born to the late Charles and Barbara Riddell Moore on Feb. 27, 1961, in Lexington, Ky. His father founded Kentucky Service Co. in 1968 with Ronald Riggs, and Doug would later go on to operate and own the company from 1990 through its acquisition by HECO of Kalamazoo, Mich., in May 2021.

Mr. Moore served as International Chairman of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association from 2014 to 2015 and dedicated twenty years to EASA’s Technical Education Committee. In 2021, EASA presented him with the Exceptional Achievement Service Award. His influence on the electromechanical industry is evident in the nomination letters for the award; one letter commended him as “one of the giants in the industry, and [he] deserves the recognition this award would bestow, for all of EASA has been able to benefit from this great leader and communicator.”

Mr. Moore married Mary McBeath in the late 1980s. He is survived by his wife and by his daughter, Margaret Moore. Outside of EASA, Doug enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family and dogs. As another colleague said in Doug’s 2021 nomination letter, “When I think of my friend and EASA leader, three words come to mind: committed, passionate, and proficient.”

Funeral services took place on Jan. 26 of this year. Memorial contributions in Doug’s name can be made to the Scott County Humane Society in Georgetown, Ky. — Kristine Weller EA

One letter recommending Mr. Moore for the award said that ‘all of EASA has been able to benefit from this great leader and communicator’

David White

Sarah Dale

Past EASA chairman Gary Byars (left) presented the 2021 Exceptional Achievement Service Award to Doug Moore during the association’s convention in Fort Worth, Tex., that year. — EASA photo

Foodie adventures

For Krista DeSocio, there’s nothing more satisfying than bringing happiness to others with food lovingly made

By Colin Gregory-Moores, EA Contributing Writer

You might know Krista DeSocio from her bright presence at the ICC International booth during the annual conventions of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association. As the company’s director of marketing, she works closely with all lines of the business — sales, production, and even HR.

What you may not know is that she has a passion for cooking. As an only child, Krista grew up cherished and loved by her parents and grandparents in a small Mountain State town, which was almost heaven. Her conversation is interwoven with suncaressed and lovingly spun gossamer memories of childhood and growing up: spending summers at her grandparents’ riverside cabin, running around barefoot, and oating on the river in a pink paddle boat, watching the orange-bellied sunnies darting in the water. Collecting badges and patches for good deeds around the neighborhood as she progressed

from being a Daisy to a Brownie and then a Girl Scout. Tap dancing and cheerleading, rhythmically twirling and throwing the baton into the skies. Intuitively, Krista has always known that life, without any guarantee of tomorrow, is that one chance you get to let yourself be the person you want to be.

The ingredients for Krista’s love of bringing people together and serving good, wholesome, and soulful food come from childhood. Cradled in the warmth and avors of her southern grandmothers’ kitchens, she would learn to make food from scratch: from baking savory biscuits, cooking up chicken and noodle soup with homemade stock, to cleaning and frying fresh sh. “I still make a lot of their recipes to this day,” she says. “It’s comfort food for your heart and your soul.”

Later, when she started combining food and traveling, Krista got to see how celebrating life and companionship around the table — which had always been important to her — is done throughout the world. “I really found out so much about people, and their cultures, and the history of food, and I fell in love with all things food,” she says. Something clicked. From having been a picky eater as a child, she lost her fear

of trying out new things. She laughs, “What’s one bite? How terrible could it be?” Now she was fearful of missing out on something wonderful. “Touching the ingredients, feeling them come together, and then being able to serve someone, getting to visit another country is a moving thing for me,” says Krista. “It makes me happy.”

Cooking was something that Krista enjoyed, but it was not, however, something that she envisaged making a living at. Born in 1980, she says that “food and cooking was not as hip as it is now.” She studied media studies and mass communication at Frostburg State University in Frostburg, Md., from 1998-2001 before moving to Knoxville, Tenn., where she has a successful career spanning some 22 years

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Baking pastries in an industrial burnout oven

Who knew that you can use a burnout oven to bake delicious Nutella turnovers? Scan the QR code above to watch Krista DeSocio of ICC International do just that, in a demo made just for Electrical Apparatus readers. If you want to try this in your shop, you’ll need pu pastry, Nutella, an orange, confectioners’ sugar — and probably permission from your shop foreman. You can follow Krista’s food blog at desociointhekitchen.com.

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Video by Krista DeSocio

in TV production and marketing. “Putting together a show that takes an idea and brings it to fruition is just . . . .” She breaks off, unable to capture that one word expressing her love of TV production, and her enjoyment of being both in front of and behind the camera.

Refining the ingredients of success

At one point, her production skills and cooking started to come together, as if it were always meant to be. Encouraged by her family and friends, she went beyond her own four walls and reached out to the world with

her food blog. People found that they could immediately relate to her. “It was clunky at first, and the photos were terrible,” she recalls. “I cringe; I don’t know why anyone stuck with me.”

Krista has always shot her photos and films using an iPhone. The images, however, became perfect once she invested in props and equipment to improve the depth and lighting. Then the sky was the limit. Things just started snowballing once she had gotten into a rhythm. On her food blog and Instagram, her followers grew to 6,000. Krista’s aim was never to put quantity over quality. It was always to have people who engage with what she is doing. The level of viewer engagement on her Instagram is particularly high, which is an important parameter for brands.

Once she started her food blog, she had to face the challenge of developing her own point of view and finding an audience. Besides consistency, this, of course, takes patience. Eventually, Krista found her voice. Her blog and videos communicate that universally relatable feeling of dropping by a good friend or neighbor for coffee and a chat, and to share a recipe. It’s a magical atmosphere infused with memories of the warmth and flavors of her grandmothers’ kitchens, and her mother’s empathetic kindness, and with the southern-belle authentic charm and wit of Krista herself. She makes it all look so natural and as easy as pie.

With her blog, Krista serves and accommodates a broad range of followers, from those with culinary experience to those starting from scratch. Particularly, for the latter, she wants to show that food does not have to be complicated to be delicious and can be fun too.

Krista (left) behind the scenes on set in 2023. — Krista DeSocio photo

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Everyone is invited to go with Krista on what she describes as her “foodie adventures.” It’s the call to have the courage to try something new, whether that is eating food, making food, growing food, or learning about food. Using obtainable ingredients to create recipes that are attainable and inclusive, she shows that cooking can be a relatable and welcoming experience. To this end, Krista employs a blend of American and European or Asian cuisine. “If you can do a fusion, the recipe might seem more achievable,” she says. “And, honestly, I just like being creative in the kitchen and seeing what’s going to work out.”

Food Network comes knocking

Once her food blog started to take off in 2019, a casting agent reached out to her on Instagram to ask if she would like to be a contestant on Food Network’s “Grill of Victory.” Krista was ecstatic. Since she was 16, it had always been her “pie-in-the-sky dream” to be on Food Network. She would watch Emerald Lagasse, Sandra Lee, and Rachael Ray and say to herself, “I want to do that so bad,” although she would never tell anyone. Krista went through a roller-coaster two months of auditions and was accepted. Then Covid happened. The production date was pushed back, and the show with Krista did not air until mid-2022. She jokes, “For years, I am sitting on this, I am on Food Network, and I can’t tell a single person.” She is now on the newsletters and e-mails of various casting companies, and her next “pie-in-the-sky dream” is to become a TV cook. “That would be amazing,” she enthusiastically laughs. In addition, Krista is a food stylist for various brands. This all began when a producer, searching for a stylist for a famous American whiskey, reached out to her. Krista thought, “That looks pretty. I can do fun garnishes.” Her triadic dream came true, combining her love of cooking, TV production, and art. When she is making food images for her blog, she wants the images to be indicative of what the food will look like and not overly styled. When she is styling for a print or TV advertisement, she augments the look of the food or beverage. In a world of competing images, there needs to be a certain level of immediate mouth-watering aesthetic appeal. As the adage goes, we eat and drink with our eyes first.

Krista DeSocio’s food advice for people on the go

> It’s best to meal prep and plan ahead on Sunday for the week.

> Avoid going to business lunches ravenously hungry

> All foods have value in moderation.

> Be mindful of what and how much of a thing you are eating.

> Include proteins in meals for satiety

> Go easy on the carbs, as they’ll make you sleepy.

> Pair carbs with proteins to reduce spikes in blood sugars.

> Pack your bags with on-the-go healthy protein snacks with really low sugar.

> Carefully read food labels.

> Don’t be afraid to combine home-cooked food with pre-cooked food from a restaurant or a store.

> To save time, think about buying an air fryer or slow cooker. — CGM

Close to Krista’s heart are her social activities in the local community. “It makes me sad that there are so many people, especially children in this world, whose basic needs of food are not met,” she says. She uses her platform as a way to give back to the community that has been supportive of her. Whenever she can, she helps her local Second Harvest Food Bank by supporting their fundraising events, raising awareness, and volunteering.

Krista’s “foodie adventures” are journeys in faith, familial love, friendship, and fellowship, as well as in unwavering support from her employer ICC International of Maryville, Tenn. For there is, perhaps, nothing better under the sun except to eat, drink, and enjoy in the company of others, and these memories will accompany us throughout all the days we have been given. EA

Improving EV accessibility

Addressing the challenge of providing charging options for multi-unit dwellings

By Maura Keller, EA Contributing Writer

As electric vehicle technology continues to sweep the nation and grab the attention of manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers alike, one thing is evident: There is a distinct accessibility issue facing the EV industry. From charging infrastructure to a ordability to policy support, EV accessibility is proving to be a multifaceted challenge that needs to be addressed for the technology to reach the next level.

Elaina Farnsworth, co-founder of SkillFusion, a customer success platform for electric vehicle service equipment operations and maintenance (O&M) providers, says “in order to have EVs, you have to be able to charge them. The United States government is mandating that in the next few years, there will have to be a 97% uptime for the charging stations themselves. That means they’ll have to be available and working 97% of the time. The challenge is that in the U.S. right

now, the uptime is only 40% to 60%. We need to do better.”

SkillFusion’s approach provides charger-agnostic skill enhancement and certi cation, creating a proprietary database of certi ed workers available to service the country’s growing EV charger network. The program developed by SkillFusion covers the full spectrum of skills needed to support charger operations, including licensed electricians and technicians specializing in technical support, networking and communications, cybersecurity, and more.

Multi-family dwellings

Farnsworth says one of the biggest, less talked about challenges the EV market faces lies within a subset of the market that lives within multi-family dwellings or apartment buildings. Consumers face

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Elaina Farnsworth

challenges in the ability to charge at home – whether that be at an apartment building, townhouse, or condo – with additional limitations of availability to charge at the workplace.

“Electrical utility service upgrades at multi-unit complexes are costly and engulfed in red tape from planning and permitting with new codes and standards that have to be enforced upon the owners (such as ADA requirements),” Farnsworth says. In addition, availability of EV chargers at multi-unit housing complexes are limited due to cost of utility upgrades required for installations. As Farnsworth explains, property owners and property management companies are reluctant to allocate funds for multiple parking stalls.

“However, it has been proven that apartments and complexes with allocated EV charging spaces rent easier and quicker than complexes without dedicated spaces for EV charging,” Farnsworth says.

The challenge the automotive industry is overcoming is offering EV and hybrid vehicles comparable in purchase price, says Steve Christensen, executive director of the Responsible Battery Coalition (RBC). “As battery costs continue to decline, the purchase price of EVs and hybrid vehicles will decrease accordingly,” he says.

Christensen points out that the automotive industry needs to communicate better the cost of ownership between internal combustion, hybrid, and EV. The RBC recently supported landmark research from the University of Michigan that examined the cost of owning the three types of vehicles and found that hybrid vehicles might have a higher purchase price than internal combustion but reach cost parity with internal combustion cars within a few years as a result of the savings in fuel expenses.

From a cost and affordability perspective, there are undoubtedly challenges that have emerged for lower-income individuals considering purchasing EVs. A new EV costs more than a new similar internal combustion engine vehicle. Additionally, buying a used EV isn’t always a good option because there aren’t many available and by the time an EV is over five years old, its battery life is significantly lower, resulting in the need to purchase an expensive replacement battery.

The federal government also has attempted to bridge the cost gap by offering tax credits. In January of this year, the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit was introduced. This credit, which is available as an instant rebate at approved car dealers, offers up to $7,500 toward a new electric, hydro-

gen, or plug-in hybrid vehicle, and up to $4,000 for a used one. Those who are striving for EV equity said this new tax credit will put buying an electric vehicle within reach of more buyers from various income levels.

Offering targeted subsidies and tax incentives for lower-income households can significantly reduce the up-front cost of EVs. These financial incentives should be designed to be easily accessible and substantial enough to make a real difference to potential buyers at the lower end of the income spectrum. With the recent introduction of the instant tax credit rebate on EV purchases, many owners found easier access to savings. And when state and local governments add to these rebates, low-income buyers will have more ability to purchase an EV.

Infrastructure needs

To further close the gap, property owners, property management companies, electrical utilities, and building and local AHJ [authority having jurisdiction] municipalities need to come together with a plan that expedites EV charger implementation within a fast-track mechanism. A key concern for potential EV owners from all income levels is the availability of charging stations. Investing in widespread, accessible charging infrastructure, particularly in low-income and rural areas, can alleviate one of the significant logistical barriers to EV ownership.

“There are also two types of interventions that can help increase EV accessibility so that all Americans can benefit from the electrification transition,” Farnsworth says. “First, design and implement educational programs for schools, colleges, and workforce development centers towards the imminent nationwide auto electrification. Secondly, enforce EV Evening ‘Time of Use’ reduced cost for home charging by utility companies making cost of EV ownership desirable and affordable.”

Experts also agree that it is imperative that the knowledge gaps about the benefits and feasibility of EV ownership that can hinder adoption be addressed. Educational campaigns and community

— Manuel Schmid / Shutterstock photo

Steve Christensen

ELECTRIC AVENUE continued from previous page

programs can raise awareness about the long-term cost savings, environmental bene ts, and available incentives for owning an EV. Businesses should be encouraged to o er EVrelated bene ts – such as on-site charging stations or lease assistance programs, which can make EV ownership more feasible for various income levels.

And EV manufacturers can o er their vehicles as a subscription-based service. This was done in the U.K., where the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre partnered with local organizations to o er access to electric cars on a pay-as-yougo basis. This type of initiative allows low-income buyers to experience EVs without the long-term nancial commitment of EV ownership.

There is a lot of work that still needs to be done to prepare dense urban areas for the EV transition. For example, Farnsworth says necessary upgrades of utility transformers are holding up projects for up to nine months from completion of the project to being operational. This is made more complicated with policies and plans for utility infrastructure upgrades not fully aligning with EV implementation forecasts and mandates.

“We also need to encourage the electrical industry towards lucrative business opportunities within the EV charging sector – which also bene ts their direct communities in a positive way,” Farnsworth says. “This means we need more education and awareness for skill development programs to increase the number of available EV charger technicians.”

Other additional challenges that need to be addressed include that potential EV consumers are still continually put o purchasing an EV due to the poor reputation of the existing nationwide charger network – both for availability and reliability.

“The billions of dollars which have been allocated to x this have not yet reached shovel-ready projects,” Farnsworth says. “Red tape is holding back immediate distribution of funds, and the public still has to gain con dence that things will get better soon.”

From a battery perspective, Christensen says developing a domestic supply chain for battery materials, innovations in battery chemistries, and advancements in battery recycling will all contribute to lowering the cost and emissions associated with EV and hybrid batteries. Incentivizing the use of recycled materials in batteries can also contribute to lower battery costs, therefore lowering the cost of the vehicle.

“Access to charging is imperative when owing an EV regardless if the owner lives in a dense urban area or the suburbs,” Christensen says. “In areas where home charging is not feasible due to high costs or zoning laws, there must be public access to su cient charging locations to support EV owners.”

Range anxiety also continues to be a barrier to many in buying an EV, especially for consumers who plan to own only one car and need a vehicle for long road trips where charging might not be available and for short commuting. “The automotive and battery industry continues to innovate and develop longer-range, faster-charging batteries,” Christensen says. “Very soon, range anxiety should be a thing of the past.” EA

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On display in Vegas

Highlights of the products and services to be showcased at this month’s convention of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association

By the Electrical Apparatus sta

If it’s June, it must be EASA. This annual rite of summer, familiar to many EA readers, will get fully underway June 24-26 when members of the Electrical Apparatus Service Association convene at Caesars Forum and Harrah’s Las Vegas.

Equal parts trade show, educational conference, networking event, and reunion, the EASA Convention brings together vendors and customers to share their knowledge, have a few laughs, and perhaps close a deal or two. Las Vegas offers many side attractions, many of them covered last month in the article “Vegas’s special powers” by Managing Editor Charlie Barks.

On this and 17 pages following we bring you previews of many of the products and services that exhibitors have told us they plan to feature at the EASA Solutions Expo. Our hope is that even readers who don’t plan to attend the convention will nd value in these summaries of what’s new in the electromecnanical service and sales industry.

Motor tester and winding analyzer

This year at the EASA Solutions Expo, Electrom Instruments will demonstrate how it continues to miniaturize the iTIG motor tester and winding analyzer. The company will be showcasing its new 6-12 kV and 15 kV motor tester, “now smaller than ever with a significant reduction in size and weight from previous generations,” according to Electrom. The company says the tester is suitable for both inshop use and field testing. The entire iTIG product line will be on display in the Electrom booth. “Expo visitors are encouraged to stop by to see just how small these new testers really are,” Electrom says.

Electrom Instruments now has a motor tester and winding analyzer that’s smaller than ever and easily transportable into the field.

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Distributor of motors and drives

ESR Motor Systems, Inc., a distributor of new motors and drives for commercial and industrial clients, is set to showcase its diverse product line. The company prides itself in maintaining a comprehensive inventory of top-tier brands and essential tools for basic modifications across all its warehouses. In the past year, ESR Motor Systems has expanded and enhanced its operations across its six locations. Notable changes include the introduction of innovative motor storage and the acquisition of tools for basic motor modifications. ESR Motor Systems’ president, national sales manager, a national inside sales member, and the e-commerce product manager will all be present during the Solutions Expo.

Coils, poles, magnet wire, and more

Coral Coil, part of the Coral Group of companies, has stateof-the-art capabilities at three manufacturing facilities and two repair shops. The company calls itself “a one-stop solution provider for all your rotating electrical machine needs.” Having grown “quite substantially in the last years,” Coral Coil plans to highlight several products and services at Booth 738, including diamond coils 400 V up to 16 kV, bars from 11 kV up to 22 kV for air- and water-cooled systems, plus rotor coils, poles, and magnet wire. On the service side, Coral Coil offers reverse engineering, power increase, and on-site rewinding of power and hydro generators. The company says it has more than 150 rewinders.

Laser machine for high-end laminations

Benefitting from many years of experience in developing and manufacturing laser cutting machines, Stiefelmayer has developed a line of application-specific machines to ensure the highest precision and dynamics standards for stator and rotor laminations. Modern technology in laser, carbon construction, and dynamic motors creates a laser machine capable of high-end motor laminations, setting new industry standards.

At the EASA Solutions Expo, the company plans to have these machines on full display. The Stiefelmayer laser machine is particularly well adapted to cutting precision shapes in thin substrates, including electro-steel, stainless, copper, and brass, according to the company. Motor laminations are a specialty, and this fact, the company says, matches the drive for EVs in the U.S. auto industry.

Stiefelmayer will be displaying its laser-cutting machines, which are well suited to producing motor laminations.

“Join us for enlightening discussions with industry experts on laser cutting technology for motor laminations at Booth 944,” Stiefelmayer urges. “Immerse yourself in the showcase of superior motor laminations meticulously manufactured using our cutting-edge laser cutting machine.”

Just one view of ESR Motor Systems’ spacious and well-ordered warehousing.

An aerial view of one of Coral Coil’s manufacturing facilities.

Mechanical seals and maple syrup

Apex Sealing, Inc., at Booth 229, will be displaying information and samples of its cartridge seals: S1, D2PR, WG3, Metal Free, PS, MM, OEM replacements, welded metal bellows, repairs, repair kits, and the company’s full line of other mechanical seals. Apex Sealing’s goal is to provide outstanding service to customers and to have a “mutually growing and profitable relationship.”

On the subject of customer profitability, the company says, “We believe if our customers increase their profitability by using Apex Sealing, they will be back again down the road. We will do everything in our power to lower your costs and increase your profitability as well as enhance your sealing reliability.”

Everything in its business, Apex Sealing says, begins and ends with product quality and technical accuracy. “Product quality is the basis for sealing reliability, which is in turn the foundation for our customer’s success,” the company says. Inventory depth and diversity are also priorities. “We have earned our reputation by having the right seal on the shelf,” Apex Seal tells us. “Although it’s impossible to have every seal for every pump, we have proven to our customers that we can get most sealing solutions on the truck today.”

And then there are “expedited solutions.” If Apex Sealing doesn’t have the right seal ready to ship, the company will build it. “If we can’t build it immediately, we will utilize our network of suppliers to find it,” Apex Seal promises. “If engineered solutions are required, we will provide you with answers ASAP, typically within a day. We are in a ‘right now’ industry, and we take that seriously.”

Apex Sealing will also provide information about its line of submersible seals, mixer seals, barrier fluid, and single- and multiple-spring-component parts. The Vermont-based company urges visitors to “come to discuss cost-e ective pricing, or just drop by for some fresh Vermont maple syrup!”

An end-on view of Haysite’s Dog-Bone composites.

A composites manufacturer’s new line

Haysite Reinforced Plastics became a member of the Isovolta Group in 2018. Founded in 1954, Haysite has been doing composite manufacturing for more than 70 years. It’s a diversified company servicing the electrical, laboratory, transit, municipal, and water market segments. At this year’s EASA Solutions Expo, the company will be introducing the new line of Dog-Bone profiles in 3⁄8 and ½ sizes to start. Headquartered in Erie, Pa., Haysite manufactures compression-molded sheets and profiles of GPO materials. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 933 for details.

Vibration sensor with wireless technology

Ludeca, in Booth 745, plans to showcase its Kappa X wireless vibration sensor. This instrument measures vibration and temperature, combining what the company describes as “unrivaled wireless technology,” replaceable battery, IP69 rated, and a “market-leading 10 kHz FMax fault detection capability” within a compact footprint. Ludeca will also have on display — and will o er live demonstrations of — its laser shaft alignment tools and portable vibration analyzers to #keepit running at the customer’s facility.

➤

An Apex Sealing crew member works on a repair.

A close look at Ludeca’s Kappa X wireless vibration sensor.

NTN Bearing sta displaying the company’s bearing products at a previous trade expo.

Bearings for demanding applications

At EASA 2024, NTN Bearing Corp. of America will be highlighting its Megaohm series of bearings, which are engineered to handle the demands of electric motor applications. Sta will be on hand to educate visitors about the company’s EM bearing features and benefits as well as best bearing practices. The company will also hold a ra e.

Ok, DON’T MONKEY AROUND. How many commutator & slip ring images can you find? Submit your entry for chance to WIN! Bristol tickets at ACTion@commutator.expert

Benshaw’s new MVRNX Series medium-voltage soft starter.

A new mediumvoltage soft starter

Benshaw will be introducing its new MVRNX Series medium-voltage soft starter. “Next-level” NX technology “takes motor control into the future” with a generational change in processor speed, protection and monitoring functionality, and communications capabilities, according to the company. MVRNX starters come standard with cyber-secured Bluetooth capabilities, allowing the user to connect safely to equipment through a phone app for shortened commissioning times and seamless troubleshooting. PLC-type architecture allows for easy integration of options to the system, Benshaw says.

In today’s world there’s often a LOT of misleading advertising hype promising everything... “Quick”, “Alert”, “Express”, “Expedited”, “Tailor Fit”, etc. yet DELIVERING VERY LITTLE IN REALITY concerning timely delivery of quality built commutators & slip rings! It’s very much like comparing “APPLES TO ORANGUTANS”! Instead of there being any reasonable direct comparison, it’s more like a pitch from a “snake oil salesman”. ’s INITIAL QUOTATIONS typically provide MULTIPLE LEAD TIME OPTIONS for BETTER DELIVERY COMMITMENT comps to appropriately address the absurd nature of misleading advertising campaigns.

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Because Quality, Compliance, & Speed REQUIRE more than “Ad-Hype!” AKARD COMMUTATOR of TENNESSEE (ACT) Delivers WORLD’S FASTEST SERVICE! ™ with Around-The-Clock ACTion! ™ 24-7-365! ™ for complete new manufacturing, refills, and repairs of ALL MAKES, ALL TYPES, & ALL SIZES of ACTually CERTIFIED COMPLIANT! ™ COMMUTATORS & SLIP RINGS RINGS…MADE IN USA!

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

Price guides, both printed and online

Our friends at Vaughen’s Price Publishing tell us they’re looking forward to seeing everyone in Las Vegas. The company’s 2024 Price Guide Book, Online Digital Price Guide, and website Vaughens.com will be on display at its booth.

Vaughen’s recently released Digital Price Guide resembles the printed book but can be accessed from anywhere – shop, home, o ce, or on the road. All visitors to the booth can register to win a free one-year subscription to Vaughen’s Online Digital Price Guide.

Jason Lammers, the firm’s project manager, will be available to take orders and answer visitors’ questions about using Vaughen’s products.

Visitors to Vaughen’s booth can see samples of the company’s price guides, both printed and digital.

Vaughen’s has been dedicated to the electric motor and pump repair industry for more than 91 years, the company says, “and we look forward to many more years of service. We hope to see you in Las Vegas, and remember to use Vaughen’s daily to ‘Put More Profit in Your Price!’”

A view of Cutsforth’s application software for machine condition monitoring.

Software platform for asset monitoring

The folks at Cutsforth, Inc., tell us they’re excited to return to the EASA Convention this summer. The company plans to showcase its electrical signature analysis on its enhanced InsightCM comprehensive platform, an online asset-monitoring platform that “empowers data-driven decisions that improve availability, reliability, and operating costs,” according to the company. InsightCM is application software for condition monitoring with full access to waveforms, multiple sensor technology inputs, enterprise software connectivity, and analytics packages. It’s used by maintenance professionals who need analytics-based reliability assessment, optimized maintenance schedules, online analysis tools, multiple sensor technology inputs, and connectivity to existing enterprise or IoT software. Cutsforth calls InsightCM “an important monitoring technology to have in your toolkit, and it works well in partnership with other solutions.”

Balancing and machine health monitoring

Erbessd Instruments is encouraging convention attendees to stop by Booth 1009 for a live demonstration of the advances the company is making in balancing and machine health monitoring. The Erbessd experts can walk visitors through the company’s full suite of products, which include wireless vibration monitors for every environment, DragonVision — “the video deflection technology taking the industry by storm” — and balancing solutions “so well-tailored we even o er a ‘build-your-own’ system,” according to the company.

EI-Series soft-bearing balancing machines, Erbessd explains, employ a two-run balancing process. Based upon the known mass and geometry of the rotor to be balanced, the balancing grade and quality required, and the known mass and geometry of the EI-Series soft-bearing suspension, EISeries users can balance rotors more precisely, e ciently, accurately, and safely, according to Erbessd.

EI-Series machines can accommodate rotors from 30 kg to 25,000 kg in capacity. Erbessd Instruments is an ISO:9001 manufacturer with sales and support o ces in Mexico, the U.S., the U.K., Canada, France, and India, with distributors in more than 100 countries around the world. “Our patented and user-friendly software eliminates the need to purchase proprietary readers and keeps your data securely in your hands using any cell phone, Windows, IOS, or Android device,” according to the company.

Motor Tester & Winding Analyzer

Permanent-magnet motor technology

Motor manufacturer OMEC is looking to make waves at the Solutions Expo with a display of its latest innovations. At the heart of the company’s exhibit will be its permanentmagnet motor technology, a development that the company says “promises to revolutionize the industry.” OMEC will unveil “solutions tailored for the general industry,” addressing the needs of diverse sectors. The company’s portfolio of low- and medium-voltage motors, now available in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, exemplifies the company’s commitment to “providing cutting-edge solutions on a wider scale,” according to OMEC. A “wealth of information” will be available at OMEC’s booth, and visitors can anticipate a firsthand look at the future of electric motor technology, guided by OMEC’s team of experts.

OMEC is also hinting at some surprises for conferencegoers, promising an immersive experience that goes beyond the conventional expectations of a trade show. “These surprises are poised to captivate and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on those seeking the forefront of innovation in the electrical motor industry,” the company promises.

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Electrom Instruments is proud to introduce the new iTIG IV series motor tester and winding analyzer. Ideal for field testing or shop use, new miniaturized iTIG models provide accurate and reliable testing in a portable case. See what makes the iTIG IV more portable than any previous generation. Scan the QR code to visit the iTIG IV Product Page for complete details.

An Erbessd Instruments balancing tower.

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Engineering and repair

CAM Innovation, a designer and maker of advanced motor and coil manufacturing equipment, plans to showcase its various products and services. The company specializes in heavy-duty electric motor repair, providing machinery for repairing d-c motors. The company’s engineering division designs motor maintenance facilities for global clients. The company also offers a wide range of machines for producing a-c and d-c form coils for OEM and aftermarket customers. CAM Innovation provides such equipment as coil formers, hot presses, wire preparation equipment, and tools to enhance coil shop efficiency and profitability.

Present at CAM Innovation’s booth will be company president Chuck McGough, technical sales specialist Dominic Lizzi, manager of technical services Tom Harris, sales and service engineer Mario Medina, and director of business development Michelle McGough.

Laser classing for shaft and keyway repair

Alabama Laser will feature its capacity for performing laser cladding, a process used to deposit a layer of material onto a surface to repair shafts or keyways on electric motors. In contrast to high-heat-inducing technologies (conventional plasma weld overlay, MIG, TIG, or sub arc welding), a primary characteristic of the laser cladding process is a lower heat input that’s said to reduce effects on shaft concentricity and mitigate shaft distortion. After being laser clad, the repaired area may then be post-machined back to print specification. Unlike metalizing processes that produce a mechanical bond that can flake off, the durable laser clad exhibits a metallurgical bond that won’t flake off during assembly or in service, according to the company. Laser cladding is also said to allow alloys to be applied to strategic areas of the shaft to prevent or delay problems such as wear and corrosion.

It’s no longer just about gambling: Las Vegas welcomes more than 6.5 million business delegates to the city per year

The CAM Innovation crew poses proudly with some of the company’s state-of-the-art machinery.

A demonstration of Alabama Laser’s laser cladding.

Commutators made with ‘uncompromised precision’

ICC International is inviting EASA partners to Booth 914 to see what the company says is the world’s first 3D-printed commutator.

EASA partners will be able to look inside the commutator, see how it’s constructed, and connect with the ICC team – including CEO & president Shawn Lyke and CFO & general manager Tracy Queen. Continuing an annual tradition, the ICC team will also be sharing its signature cocktail, serving up — as the company tantalizingly puts it — “delicious dirty martinis in mini martini glasses that partners can take home and use time and time again!”

While they enjoy their martinis, visitors can drop o their business cards in the ICC ra e box for a chance to win a Yeti cooler; four winners are to be chosen.

ICC International will be sponsoring the Women of EASA networking reception from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on June 25, an event to be facilitated by Jan Schmidlkofer of K&N Electric Motors, Inc., Spokane. ICC calls this ticketed session “a great opportunity for the women of EASA to connect and discuss how to recruit more women to the industry.”

Introducing a new motor warehouse

Heartland Motors of Smyrna, Tenn., a new EASA member, is eager to tell people about its new warehouse. The company specializes in stocking motors that aren’t stocked by manufacturers. Currently available are new GE, IEEE 841 MV motors 200-600 hp, 2, 4, and 6 pole. The LS, L, and LL shafts are in stock as well, with all ratings covered, along with new TWMC custom motors. The standard GE MV catalog 841 products are also in stock, with Inpro Seals DE and NDE and 66-month warranty or five years in service.

The company can help with GE Vernova out of Brazil, including parts and d-c brushes. “We are proudly selling Siemens, which is now Innomotics, as well as TWMC, USEM, and WEG,” Heartland Motors informs us. “We are happy to provide pricing against repair for you or just try to save you some money. We also have an extensive library of drawings that we are happy to share with all EASA members upon request.” Perhaps most importantly, they enjoy their work: “At Heartland Motors we love what we do, and we are willing to help you for free and for fun!”

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A 3D-printed commutator? You can have a close look at one at the booth if ICC International.

Joey O’Day of Heartland-Motors.com and his fiancée, Nicole, will be working the booth of Heartland Motors, a new EASA member company.

A sampling of standards and other publications from the InterNational Electrical Testing Association.

Essential electrical testing guidance

NETA – The InterNational Electrical Testing Association tells us it’s proud to support EASA and participate in the upcoming convention and Solutions Expo.

The association is inviting attendees to visit NETA, an ANSI-Accredited Standards Developing Organization that creates and maintains standards for electrical power systems commissioning, acceptance testing, maintenance testing, and certification of electrical testing technicians. The association says it’s committed to advancing the industry through educational conferences and on-demand training courses.

The association adds, “Be sure to stop by NETA’s EASA Solutions Expo Booth 430 to peruse the latest in top-tier industry publications, receive discounts on NETA’s training library of on-demand courses, and learn more about NETA’s EPIC 2024 and PowerTest25 Conferences.”

Motor testing and instrumentation

Motor Diagnostic Systems, or MDS, offers testing and instrumentation for electric motors, solenoids, armatures, and coils. The company is also the exclusive North American representative and service center for Schleich motor testers. New at the EASA Solutions Expo this year: MDS is expanding its MTC2 R7’s capabilities and is accepting pre-orders for a larger, more capable stand-alone tester that can measure voltages of 25 kV, 30 kV, 40 kV, and 50k V. Stand-alone here, according to the company, means there’s no need to purchase any additional benchtop instruments to operate the equipment.

The MTC2 R7 Power Pack is built in a robust, easily transportable housing, complete with large castors, making relocation easy, according to the company. A large monitor, including a mouse and keyboard, is mounted on the housing itself, enabling ergonomic operation. All connections are located at the back of the tester, including a cable winder for winding up all test leads after use. An additional shelf allows for accessories, such as Kelvin clamps and foot switches, to be stored as well.

Motor Diagnostic Systems’ MTC2 R7.

Software for analyzing pricing

Spring Point will be showcasing its Spring Point Suite software, now in use at more than 200 motor shops. The company, exhibiting at Booth 367, will demonstrate MotorBase, QM Wizard, CRM, Pricing Analyzer, and more.

The company will be launching a new fully based tool, called the Pricing Analyzer, at 1:50 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, in the New Solutions Theater.

The Pricing Analyzer will find comparative repair pricing across all EASA regions based on thousands of “reliable, actual, and valuable records,” according to Spring Point. The company recently hired a support specialist, QM analyst, quality assurance tester, and chief technology o cer to help lead the company globally. The company also hired a new development firm.

Spring Point, the company tells us, was acquired by ABB at the end of 2023. Spring Point says this new corporate ownership will provide the company with more resources and technical expertise to support customers “now and in the future.” Spring Point will remain a separate legal entity within the ABB group, allowing the company to continue to react with the same quickness and agility customers have come to expect while also providing an even greater level of data privacy.

Magnet wire, coils, commutators, and more

Electric Motor Coil plans to showcase its newest machinery as well as samples of its magnet wire, coils, and commutators. The company’s booth will be using a second video screen, enhancing its display capabilities. The company will also unveil its latest product o erings, which will include breakthroughs in rotor bar automation.

“We believe that 3D scanning will revolutionize the industry by enabling rapid, precise measurements and angles, transforming the way we approach manufacturing and design,” the company says. “These tools not only enhance our capabilities but also set new benchmarks for quality and e ciency in our sector. We will also be unveiling our new rapid delivery service.”

Electric Motor Coil will be announcing several new additions, which include expanding its manufacturing capabilities to include magnet wire and utilizing materials such as Daglass, Nomex, and Kapton. The company has also invested in a leading-edge 3D printer and 3D scanner technology, “which is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” the company says.

The Electric Motor Coil day shift crew receives a visit from Alex Nuttall (in jacket and open-collar shirt), mayor of Barrie, Ontario.

HVI produces many higher kVA AC Test Sets for performing AC withstand testing on all types of electrical apparatus. These include corona free sets for performing partial discharge testing on switchgear, bushings, breakers, motors, linemans safety equipment/accessories, distribution transformers, etc. (Pd equipment not availabe from HVI.) Various control packages are available: simple manual controls, automated and computer interfaceable controls, and fully microprocessor based controls for complete test automation and data collection.

Spring Point is returning to the EASA Solutions Expo under new corporate ownership.

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

High-efficiency motors in stock

Nidec plans to feature its high-efficiency U.S. Motors brand of electric motors while also focusing on its wide availability of in-stock and ready-to-install motors, including the HolloShaft vertical motor. Also featured will be Nidec’s Super Premium and above variable-frequency drive motors and all-in-one integrated motors and controls, which the company says are “leading the industry with efficiency ratings of IE 4 and IE 5, delivering remarkable energy savings compared to traditional single-speed motors.” Nidec will offer visitors a demonstration of its newest technology, the ID300 integrated drive,

Spin the wheel that’s powered by Lafert

Members of the Lafert crew at last year’s EASA Convention in National Harbor, Md.

The folks at Lafert North America tell us they’re looking forward to “another highly anticipated event in fabulous Las Vegas.” Visitors who are feeling lucky are encouraged to stop by Booth 723 for a chance to spin the wheel — powered by a Lafert PM motor, no less — for a chance to “win some fun prizes.” The Lafert crew will be joined by a special guest from Sacemi to help showcase a range of coolant pumps said to be ideal for machine tools (milling machines, lathes, and drills), glass processing, and printing machines.

Motors for large rotating applications

Innomotics GmbH, the global supplier of electric motors and large drive systems, plans to showcase its Advantage Series of medium-voltage, totally enclosed, fancooled motor design, which is a result of meeting the common application challenges users experience with large compressors, blowers, coolers, mixers, conveyors, extruders, and pumps. The company understands that many industries have common large-rotating applications that are low-spec in nature. “Users also prefer motor suppliers that are capable of delivering standard and customized equipment,” the company says. “Innomotics is one of the few manufacturers today that effectively do both.” Advantage Series is a standard TEFC motor best suited for low specification applications in a wide range of industries.

A motor from Innomotics’ Advantage Series of medium-voltage motors.

Commutators with less environmental impact

Nelco Industries, a European specialist in commutators for d-c motors, is looking forward to meeting with owners and managers of American motor repair shops. The company plans to give a behind-the-scenes demonstration of its workshop through pictures taken by a French artist. Nelco describes itself as committed to being more sustainable, using essentially copper that comes from scraps to produce commutators. Among new products the company is developing is a new slip ring. Nelco has recently expanded and plans to retrofit its machines this year instead of buying new ones, in order to reduce its environmental footprint. This is all in keeping with the company’s larger vision: “We have determined the usefulness of our firm,” Nelco Industries tells us, lies in the objective to “carry the ambition to support the global economy in its ecological transition through our humanity, excellence, and know-how.”

Insulation materials and machines

The Nipon Rika crew at the company’s booth at the 2023 EASA Solutions Expo in National Harbor, Md.

Nipon Rika, the manufacturer of insulation systems, heatdissipating materials, and advanced laminates, is celebrating its 110th anniversary this year. At the EASA Solutions Expo, the company will show visitors how it’s continuing to expand its lines of insulation materials and automated machines for the production of coils and bars. Once again, Nippon Rika will be bringing team members from all over the world, including the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Mexico, to the convention.

Come and meet Helwig’s new president

Helwig Carbon’s newly appointed president, Nitin Kulkarni, and Jeff Koenitzer P.E., chairman of the board, will be presenting new research in a session titled “The Importance of Spring Force on Carbon Brush Function” on Monday, June 24, at 11 a.m. Kulkarni, appointed president of Helwig Carbon this past February, is also a member of the EASA Technical Services Committee. Meanwhile, on display at Helwig’s booth at the Solutions Expo will be the company’s entire shaft grounding lineup, including new EZ MultiFit brackets, and the BPK-Probe, a shaft voltage detection device. Helwig will have engineers on hand to answer questions regarding carbon brushes, holders, springs, and sliding electrical contacts in general.

A commutator from Nelco Industries.

A sampling of high-efficiency U.S. Motors brand motors from Nidec.

Nitin Kulkarni, president of Helwig Carbon, plans to be at the company’s booth and is looking forward to meeting EASA members.

Announcing a new Las Vegas warehouse

Bartlett Bearing Company, Inc., an independent authorized bearing distributor, is using the convention as an occasion to announce the opening of its seventh location, this one in Las Vegas. The purpose of the new fully stocked warehouse is to streamline the company’s distribution network for faster and more efficient service for customers nationwide.

Bearing Co.’s booth at the 2023 EASA Solutions Expo.

“This expansion presents an incredible opportunity to further our presence in the West Coast market,” says Sarah Musser, president of Bartlett Bearing.

“We are excited to continue the Bartlett tradition of on-the-shelf inventory and same-day shipping we’ve held since 1951.”

The Las Vegas location has more than 8,000 square feet of combined warehouse and office space. Henry Barragan, who joined the company in 2023, is leading sales efforts out of this new location. “I’m thrilled to be a part of a team who works tirelessly to bring Bartlett’s values to life,” he says.

This year’s convention will also see the debut of Bartlett Bearing’s newly redesigned trade show booth, set up to showcase the company’s “long history of excellence in an inviting and easy-to-maneuver new design,” Bartlett tells us.

A motor shop with several recent upgrades

Representatives from Jasper Electric are coming to EASA 2024 eager to tell visitors about the company’s many equipment upgrades. These include a larger burn-off oven and a larger coil winding machine along with an upgraded dynamometer. With the addition of these improvements, “we hope to better service our customers with cost savings and shorten turn around times,” the company says. Jasper Electric offers a large supply of new motors and has recently expanded by adding new technicians to its staff. For the past four years, the motor shop has been managed by longtime employee Neal Blackburn (pictured here), who brings to the position 35 years of experience as a winding technician. Visitors to Jasper Electric’s booth can expect giveaways on all three days of the convention.

The Caesars Forum convention center is a LEED-SilverCertified, 550,000-square-foot facility with what are claimed to be the world’s two largest pillarless ballrooms

Facility expansions with new capabilities

Pittsburgh Electrical Insulation, exhibiting at Booth 739, has significantly expanded its manufacturing operations with the acquisition of Fibertek’s Electrical Products Division and has since continued its expansion by adding a new storage warehouse in its Pittsburgh location. The company has expanded warehouse space at its Brownsville, Tex., location as well.

In addition to increasing warehousing space, PEI has added new equipment to its in-house manufacturing and converting divisions. This includes four new braiders to increase B-stage surge rope production and a new slitter capable of slitting master logs more than 72 inches in width, “which will greatly enhance their converting capabilities,” according to the company.

PEI plans to have all of its product experts on-site to showcase the company’s expanded offerings of banding tapes, banding films, edging tapes, armor tapes, B-stage surge rope, felts, NMN/DMD/NKN laminates, and solvent-free DMD laminates and wedges. Company representatives will also be available to discuss a variety of insulating and pre-peg papers, mica tapes, and felts (aramid, polyester, polyimide, and Dacron), along with the company’s popular PEI-41 red and black insulating paint.

Core loss testers and supplies

Jenkins Electric plans to feature a variety of equipment and distribution items this year. The Jenkins Gen3 Series core loss tester will be in the booth and available for demonstrations. With integration into the Jenkins Gen3 Series motor test system, the core loss tester is the latest addition to the Gen3 family. The company will feature other items from its online store, including Axalta resin, Seymour paints, cleaners and lubricants, and standoff insulators. The company continues to expand its offerings to the motor repair industry by providing servo repair, winding as a service, transformer winding, and new distributed items to aid shops in their repairs.

Bartlett

You’ll find the cheerful Pittsburgh Electrical Insulation crew at Booth 739.

A Jenkins Gen3 Series core loss tester as spotted in the wild.

Jasper Electric invites EASA attendees to visit the company’s booth and meet motor shop manager Neal Blackburn.

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

A new vibration analysis tool

VibePro, which describes itself as the place “where innovation meets expertise,” is encouraging EASA attendees to see what’s new at the company at Booth 328. “We’re excited to showcase our new VibePro 10, designed to transform how you approach vibration analysis and equipment maintenance,” the company says.

VibePro plans to demonstrate its VibePro 10 vibration analysis app.

VibePro will provide live demonstrations of its latest services, and visitors to VibePro’s booth will be able to see the company’s latest advancements in action. Staff will be available to answer questions and show how VibePro’s new tools can be integrated into an operation for optimal performance.

Using ultrasound to detect electrical defects

Unexpected and sudden electrical asset failures not only cost millions of dollars a year in downtime but also have the potential to maim and kill, SDT Ultrasound reminds us. Whether we’re talking about substations, transmission and distribution lines, transformers, or motor circuit control cabinets, electrical assets play a key role in practically everything we do in our day-to-day lives or at work. And like most things, we take them for granted until they fail to deliver.

“Thankfully,” SDT Ultrasound says, “partial discharge and other common electrical defects, such as corona, arcing, and tracking, all produce high-frequency airborne ultrasound.” Ultrasound’s ability to detect a wide range of electrical defects is why it is outlined in NFPA70B as a mandatory inspection technology for the condition monitoring of electrically charged assets and systems.

SDT Ultrasound’s products are designed to help do just that. The company plans to feature its full product line: SDT340, 270, LUBExpert, SonaVu, ON-GUARD, ULTRAChecker, and Vigilant.

Hybrid ceramic motor bearings

At this year’s EASA Solutions Expo, Nachi will showcase its cutting-edge products and capabilities tailored for the electric motor repair industry. At its booth, the company plans to highlight its extensive range of products and demonstrate its “unrivaled capabilities to meet the diverse needs of our customers,” according to Nachi.

Highlighted products will include Nachi’s hybrid ceramic bearings, a “revolutionary solution that addresses challenges in electric motor applications,” providing enhanced performance and durability, the company says.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to maintaining optimal inventory levels to serve our customers effectively,” Nachi tells us. “We’re excited to share Nachi’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the industry.”

of software and hardware tools designed to help manage industrial power systems.

Predictive maintenance goes wireless

Treon, a Finnish company dedicated to advancing industrial innovation by revolutionizing predictive maintenance with wireless technology, this year is introducing a new software tool that streamlines network health management of IoT devices. This, the company says, will complement its industrial offerings, which include sensors, gateways, and services. Treon Industrial Node 6 Ex is a wireless sensor that measures tri-axial vibration and temperature of rotating equipment such as motors, fans, and pumps. It’s ATEX- and HazLoc-certified for potentially explosive atmospheres.

Treon’s measurement capabilities, powered by Treon Aito software, enable seamless data acquisition, edge computing, and easy integration, according to the company. Setting new benchmarks in equipment health monitoring, Treon strives to offer cost-effective solutions through sensors, gateways, and software for large-scale deployment.

Analyzers for online and offline testing

Megger Baker Instruments will be highlighting its innovative analyzers for motor testing. The company’s instruments compile information via online and offline testing. The online test equipment searches for power quality, motor (Ex: rotor bar) load, efficiency, and other problems within a running motor. The offline equipment implements both low and non-destructive high voltage to identify problems missed by low voltage alone. Tests identify faults within the leads and windings, plus insulation-to-ground and turn-to-turn. According to Megger Baker, these testers simulate the high voltages associated with startup, finding problems that are above operating voltage, which allows time to repair or replace equipment on the user’s schedule.

Treon plans to spotlight its assortment

The Megger Baker ADX 15A motor analyzer.

Sample bearings from Nachi.

Feature | Service & Sales Companies

At the pinnacle of service

Apex Industrial Automation has reached the top of its class by selling service and staying on the hunt for like-minded acquisitions

By Charlie Barks, EA Managing Editor

ROMEOVILLE, ILL. — The phrase “reaching an apex” implies being at the top of something. Being at an apex means you’re currently at the peak of a given subject, be it your business competition or the summit of Mount Everest. Yet unlike the mountain conquest, the business example doesn’t have to mean you’ve peaked. That’s where Apex Industrial of Romeoville, Ill., currently stands: at the top of its class, but with visions for more based on a belief in service as a product.

‘Dirty

work’ with a polish

Apex is a visibly polished operation upon entry, one that doesn’t necessarily have the feel of a typical “industrial” setting while making your way into the facility — something other companies have attempted and failed to achieve — the valuable divide of presentation and “dirty work.”

Similar to Longo (featured in last month’s Electrical Apparatus) and other sites featured in past issues of EA, Apex manages to keep its sales offices, meeting rooms, and administrative branch well insulated from the hustle and bustle of the shop floor beyond it. The Apex waiting room has carpeted floors, a fresh scent, a water cooler and refrigerator for guests, reading material, and catered lunch (Jimmy John’s) for the taking.

A large plasma video screen displays company values and safety protocols. Employees are wearing labeled attire, and all are interacting on an organized tip. Morale seems to be high and motivation fostered — an organized, coordinated team effort that emanates “company culture.” An EASA member certificate is framed on the wall in the waiting room, along with a Romeoville Chamber of Commerce acknowledgement. The outside of the building itself, seen just prior to all this, is a clean, presentable exterior with a strong black logo in block letters.

The company’s slogan is “Service Is Our Product.” You can hear the rumblings of work behind the doors to the shop, but just barely; they’re muted and feel notably separated from the office setting. It’s almost a perfect blend: Make sure these two separate parts of the business are reminded who they work with, but don’t let one disrupt the other. Now let’s look at how this culture has translated to business success.

Masters of M&A and automation

Apex began as a single location in a third-party warehouse in Downers Grove, Ill., growing to five locations through acquisitions that were made over the years. Some of these included unique, vintage sites, such as a World War II hangar in Bedford Park, Ill., that previously housed IESCO’s (acquired in 2018) main facility. In 2019, all five locations were consolidated into the new single facility in Romeoville.In 2023, the company bought another building in Bensenville to re-locate its Control Panel shop.

As indicated by the name of the business alone, Apex Industrial Automation is a decidedly “hybrid” operation. The company, which began with a mere three employees including owner Ryan Watts, conceived a trio of distribution, manufacturing, and service from the get-go in 2006. It now has more than 50 employees. Although the current work split is roughly 70/30 in favor of “parts,” that 30% devoted to value-added service accounts for a major portion of revenue, such as its repair and panels maintenance. The hybrid title includes mechanical power transmission, electrical components, a panel shop that employs automated technology and is housed at a separate facility in Bensenville, Ill., and the aforementioned service center on-site in Romeoville that reflects equal polish to its next-door administrative area.

While most modern companies have incorporated automated services over time, Watts’s previous work experience at Rockwell

Ed Sherwin at work in the servo motor department at Apex.

Automation in Milwaukee allowed him to see the writing on the wall a bit earlier. The word “hybrid” was part of what he envisioned at Apex, as was an industrial-automation combo, even if he thought the original name needed tweaking.

“Apex Power Equipment; I thought it sounded like a lawn mower company,” Watts recalls, referring to the original name of the industrial parts distributor. Knowing back in 2006 that automation was the future, he already had plans to include the word in the title. The following year brought the acquisition of Peoria Bearing, another industrial parts distributor, and 2009 saw Industrial Motor Service, an industrial repair shop, enter the fold. It didn’t hurt that “‘Apex’ is first in the phone book, too,” Mike Assell, Apex’s vice president of sales & marketing, says. Can you imagine if they’d picked ‘Zenith’? We might be in for a social movement protesting alphabetical order.

Watts elaborated that he (and other peers) specifically recognized that induction motors were on their way out and servos on their way in around this time. The like-minded approach of Jay’s Electric, another industrial repair shop, was added in Apex’s next acquisition (2012) and

the following year marked “our first full entree into the automation space,” Watts pinpoints, referring to his purchase of Control Headquarters in 2013. Apex has acted on that initial calculated hunch and continues to move in the direction of automated processes — while still maintaining hands-on service roots. The company is currently getting into robotics and considering purchases of cobots to augment its versatile staff.

To understand this structure and associated processes, it helps to consider the following: There’s the aspect of selling the components, which can be broken down to “design, engineering, and fabricate,” as Watts helpfully explains it. Then comes an aspect of commissioning these components after that. “If you’re good in the mechanical power transmission space,” Watts says, a successful business can rely upon mechanical and electrical expertise and a clear understanding of the distinction between those two areas. Most recently, Rainbow Electric was added in 2021, further cementing the repair shop capabilities of Apex.

A term heard repeatedly when it comes to M&A is “expanding into new markets,” and Apex is no different here. Certain areas of expansion the company has recently delved into, or is considering, include refrigeration, aggregate/grain (which Watts calls “bulk material handling”), food and beverage, and more. Most of these can be considered “specialist roles,” something that can have a very high return on investment. New service markets being explored include breaker repair, arc flash training, leak detection, and board repair — “in general, broader field services,” Watts summarizes. These services may include “the installation and removal of equipment,” vibration and temperature analyses, monitoring gasses from the Cloud, and a live feed lab.

Product-wise, a recent addition to the company portfolio is Dodge’s Intelli-Lube, an automatic lubricator that can enhance site safety by providing hightech remote grease delivery that is said to be capable of extending bearing life. According to Dodge, 80% of reasons for bearing failures are due lubrication issues (10% incorrect installation, 9% wrong bearings, 1% other), making Intelli-Lube useful for “taking the guesswork out of greasing,” as the company says.

Sales software & special tools

Apex has sales software that updates data once an hour. The company brass is enthusiastic about this software’s positive influence on the bottom line; it is not only highly efficient for both parties involved, but it fosters reliability with clients. The software AIA uses was developed by Rubbertree Systems, an Ohio company that designed a “modern platform with distributors in mind,” according to Jennifer

With a smile, Eric Miranda performs repair on an electric motor.

Michael D’Aquila helps organize and track inventory. Many employees are crosstrained in multiple areas at Apex.

APEX INDUSTRIAL continued from previous page

Eric Kerzisnik (left) and General Shop Manager Chad Desy.

APEX INDUSTRIAL continued from page 42

King, marketing manager at Rubbertree. Using notifications to send regular alerts, Watts calls it “a great way to manage your business,” as Rubbertree itself advertises, citing accurate data with up-to-date information and “near real-time syncing” that “matches your ERP to the penny.”

The app is also touted for its user-friendliness; it encourages businesses to “drive user adoption quickly with easy to use software, spend less time learning and more time using it,” its relevant information (“access the data important to you, with data sets in customers, sales, orders, AR, AP, inventory, purchasing, service, production and more”), and advanced configuration (customize settings, dashboards, and forms to meet your process. “Start with a template or create new and share with your team”).

In addition to the Rubbertree addition, Apex also designed its own “stator workstation”, one of a few pet projects that Watts enjoys investing in for his team. Other examples of this include a premium precision cutting machine for making custom parts, and a hanging, wheeled or-

ganizer imported from Australia that can be used for chains and hoist accessories, which Watts laments when empty. He also says he’s getting ready to purchase a 3D printer that would augment the production of custom parts.

‘Service is our product’

The “polish” referred to earlier isn’t just for show. It’s embedded in the company’s culture, something that Watts credits to its success, and which Assell (who joined less than a year ago) says drew him to Apex personally. Apex’s slogan is “service is our product,” a good place to begin when understanding the company’s approach. Yet, words are only one part of the formula. Equally (if not more) important: How do you get prospective customers and your hires to believe in this “company culture” and execute it?

Ryan Watts has a very helpful take on this process and how it came about in his recent journey. First, he cites the works of Gino Wickman, including Traction (2012) and the theory of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System). One aspect of “traction” in this context, Watts explains, is defining your culture. If you’re picturing some variety of detached, c-suite hierarchy, this is where you get off the boat; Watts readily admits his own shortcomings. “I did hiring in the early stages, and I’m horrible at it,” he concedes, adding that it was important to recognize and delegate these aspects of business in order to achieve success.

There are also other keys, such as merit and performance-based increases, and promoting from within. “We want to see that they [our applicants, and even entry-level employees] want to advance,” Assell says. “And they do advance.” Here, both Watts and Assell credit service manager Meghan Mullen with experience in training younger generations. The hiring dynamic is also impacted by the physical services. There are different skill sets to pumps, motors, gearboxes, etc. . . . and these need to be addressed during the hiring process.

That being said, Watts and Assell agree that they would rather have someone who is noticeably buying into the company culture early on than someone with nuanced expertise who desires to go their own way. “Our average employee age right now is 38,” Assell notes. That number says as much as the entire previous paragraph could have, in a way, because it exemplifies a company that is ahead of the curve and able to reach an often-elusive target group heavily affected by the skills gap.

Given its track record of acquisitions since its founding, it’s evident that Apex has implemented this hiring approach with its culture. With culture so often being used categorically nowadays, it’s refreshing to see that term applied to unify at Apex, a place where employees want to work, with service as the product.

Geno Dominguez (left) and Jose Munoz at work at Apex’s Romeoville facility.

Mark Graunke preparing to lift a large motor using Apex’s ample crane capacity.

— Electrical Apparatus photos by Charlie Barks

Feature | Industry History

Raising expectations and spreading the word

Dr. Wallace Brithinee looks back at sweeping changes in the industry and the role Brithinee Electric played in helping to bring them about

By Colin Gregory-Moores, EA Contributing Writer

During its 55 years of operation as a family-run business (1963-2018), Brithinee Electric strove to distinguish itself from its direct competitors. Around the year 2000, it first became involved with marketing consultants. Those consultants implored the Brithinee brothers to create a mission statement that describes and spreads the word about what they had always been doing: “We want to deliver goods and services of such high quality and timeliness that we raise the expectations of the customers.” Raising the standards, as captured in the company logo, had long become a byword for Brithinee Electric. Here, we take a closer look at the company and the work of one of its co-founders, Dr. Wallace Brithinee.

From ivory towers to smokestacks and back

Wallace was already a high-school valedictorian and had received his bachelor’s degree summa cum laude, when, at the age of 22, he was awarded a Ph.D. in mathematics. Like his identical twin brother Donald, he then was inducted into the Society of the Sigma Xi for original research, in a ceremony conducted by a Nobel prize winner in physics. Wallace’s three college degrees were from the University of California Riverside (UCR), which was known as the Amherst of the West at that time. The campus has since grown in size from 3,000 undergraduate students in the 1960s to the present-day campus of 26,900 undergraduate and graduate students.

Over the years, Wallace has stayed involved and deepened his ties with UC and the Riverside campus. In 1988, he and his brother philanthropically established the merit-based Brithinee Alumni Endowed Scholarships to recognize and further support the talents and work of recipients of UCR Alumni Association scholarships for incoming freshmen. The community of Brithinee scholars now numbers more than 140. Currently, Wallace also serves on the Dean’s Council of Advisors at the Bourns College of Engineering, founded in 1989. Despite his NASA fellowship, Wallace turned his back on the long-distance loneliness of the chalk-

for

and coffee-in-hand pursuit of mathematical truth. In 1971, he was one of a handful of mathematics Ph.D. recipients out of an estimated total of 1,100 in the U.S. to go to work for business and industry. In 1971, Brithinee Electric built the first of its buildings of such quality that Wallace could feel comfortable to invite UCR deans and professors, as well as business leaders, for meetings. He did exactly that by leaving the ivory tower for the day-to-day excitement of “chasing smokestacks.”

The Brithinee Electric years

In 1963, Wallace, his brother, and their father, a World War II Navy veteran, founded Brithinee Electric as equal partners in Colton, Calif. This was a quarter of a mile away from the historic site where, as Wallace recounts, the first overland wagon train to California migrated along the Old Spanish Trail to create the community of Agua Mansa, along the Santa Ana River, in Alta California, in 1840. This would eventually become the town of Colton in the 1880s, with the father and the brother of famed lawman Wyatt Earp being justice of the peace and town marshal, respectively. With the mining of limestone and marble, followed by the manufacturing of cement in 1891, the town embraced industry. By the 1960s, Colton and the surrounding towns had a thriving manufacturing

Electric to Sulzer. Photo was in small meePng room at the Colton plant. November 5, 2018

From leC: Donald Brithinee, Wallace Brithinee, Jim Mugford. Jim was, at that Pme, president of Sulzer Electro

Mechanical Services. Photo for use in Brithinee Electric’s promoPonal materials. Date unknown.

Photo by Richard BurneT Photography

From leC: Wallace Brithinee, Donald Brithinee

Motors were remanufactured by Brithinee Electric, for inventory and eventual sale.

Lunch at Manufacturers’ Summit, February 14, 2018.

From leC: Gary PaTon, manager of Sulzer’s Colton plant (formerly Brithinee Electric); Wallace Brithinee; Dr.Richard Schrock, Nobel prize in Chemistry, 2005, nowonUCRfaculty;invitedtopresent InnovaPon Awards to the winning Student Team (winners were from Harvey Mudd College)

In this photo

use in Brithinee Electric’s promotional materials, Wallace Brithinee (left) and Donald Brithinee pose with motors remanufactured by Brithinee Electric for inventory and eventual sale.

— Photo by Richard Burnett Photography

to the formulas used, population and job growth have also positively influenced education funding. Partnering of the Manufacturer’s Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) — of which Wallace is president — with community colleges and state agencies has brought in over $50 million of grant money for workforce development and vocational training over the past 20 years. While the population of the Inland Empire makes up only 9% of that of California, 20% of recent new jobs in the state are situated there.

Ribbon-cu)ng for Brithinee Electric’s plant expansion, November 18, 2010.

From leC: Debbie Brithinee, Donald Brithinee, Wallace Brithinee, Kelly Chastain, who was mayor of Colton. Woman at right is unknown to me.

From motor repairs to motor sales

WALLACE BRITHINEE continued from previous page

base. This made it easy to identify and call on industrial plants for business by “chasing smokestacks.” Industry was very visible, and not hidden within the huge concrete buildings that today populate the area.

Industrial emissions from such plants, along with millions of automobiles, three major railroads, and mountain ranges that trap these gases, form the cauldron in which the sunlight cooks the brew to become “smog.” But industry and automobiles have been greatly improved since the 1960s, with noticeably cleaner air now prevailing.

The population of the Inland Empire counties of Riverside and San Bernardino has grown to 4.6 million. Covering an area of 27,000 square miles, the Inland Empire now strikingly consists of 59 cities, about 3,700 manufacturing facilities employing more than 96,000 persons, 12 community colleges, and five four-year colleges or universities. Due

From being solely involved in motor repairs in the sixties, Brithinee Electric grew in the seventies to include motor sales. At that time, motor manufacturers were wanting to broaden their distribution channels in Southern California. Motor distribution grew from the bearing supply houses to include motor repair shops. This and the concomitant shift regarding motor repair versus motor replacement constituted a watershed moment. Repair shops that embraced the sale of new electric motors could add revenue and profits. Brithinee Electric profited by just as aggressively pursuing sales as it had motor repairs. Wallace emphasizes, “We wanted to grow, and we wanted that to be part of our business as well. . . . So, the idea of adding a significant inventory was important to us.”

Signing contracts for sale of Brithinee Electric to Sulzer. Photo was in small meePng room at the Colton plant. November 5, 2018

Variable-speed drives and motor controls

Brithinee Electric had not been able to cut into the conventional electromechanical motor controls market due to non-competitive costs. Then in 1982, Toshiba International Corporation launched a variable-frequency transistor-output drive that was microprocessor based. Toshiba had been a key supplier of motors to Brithinee Electric, with quality that was unexcelled.

From leC: Donald Brithinee, Wallace Brithinee, Jim Mugford. Jim was, at that Pme, president of Sulzer Electro Mechanical Services.

Visit to Brithinee Electric by UCR’s Dean of College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (Thomas Baldwin) and Asst. Dean for Advancement, Holly Preble, July 21, 2010.

“The reliability of Toshiba variable-frequency drives was outstanding. For all their complexity, they had reliability like a light switch or electromechanical starter,” Wallace brightly jokes. This constituted another watershed moment. One of Brithinee Electric’s very first projects followed in 1983 for Southern California Edison when it installed motor controls and a Toshiba adjustable-frequency drive to facilitate the variable-speed pumping of gas to the residents of Avalon, Catalina Island. In the first year, Southern Cal Edison documented a 78% reduction in its energy consumption to pump the gas. Similar projects were built, such as to pressurize the water system at a nearby hospital high-rise building. This was at St. Bernardine’s Medical Center, where Wallace and Donald Brithinee were born in 1948. Energy

Photo for use in Brithinee Electric’s promoPonal materials. Date unknown.

From leN: Wallace Brithinee, Holly Preble, Thomas Baldwin, Donald Brithinee.

Photo by Richard BurneT Photography From leC: Wallace Brithinee, Donald Brithinee Motors were remanufactured by Brithinee Electric, for inventory and eventual sale.

Visit to Brithinee Electric by Dr. Sadrul Ula, from UCR College of Engineering Center for Environmental Research & Technology. August 2,

A visit to Brithinee Electric in July 2010 by the University of California Riverside’s dean of the College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences Thomas Baldwin and assistant dean for advancement Holly Preble. From left: Wallace Brithinee, Holly Preble, Thomas Baldwin, and Donald Brithinee. — Dr. Xin Xue photo

A ribbon-cutting for Brithinee Electric’s plant expansion in November 2010. Present for the occasion were (from left) Debbie Brithinee, Donald Brithinee, Wallace Brithinee, and Kelly Chastain, who was mayor of Colton at the time. — Angela Hill Productions photo

Along the way, Brithinee Electric picked up customers in the machine tool industry. These manufacturers purchased thousands of variable-frequency drives (VFD), as they successfully competed with foreign manufacturers of machine tools. For them, reliability was a key motivator, as they offered their customers a high service level. To explain the dollar significance to Brithinee Electric, each truckload of VFDs was worth ten times the price of the motors that would be driven by those VFDs.

Motor control centers and UL certification

consumption for pumps used to pressurize the system was reduced by 68%.

In 1984, Brithinee Electric attempted to enter the highly profitable business of irrigating the more than 120 golf courses in the Palm Springs area. It partnered with two local pump companies to take advantage of retrofit kits for low-pressure pumping by the Irrigation Division of Toro Manufacturing, at that time the leading producer of sprinkler heads for golf course irrigation, which was based an hour away in Riverside. Brithinee Electric put together an assembled motor control panel for variable-speed pumping. This did away with the high-maintenance pressure-regulating valves. Brithinee Electric needed to demonstrate, to the clients’ satisfication, that the variable-speed pumping system could operate in the hot desert climate without interruption — a consideration more important than energy savings.

However, within a month of the system being installed for one of the world’s wealthiest people, news spread quickly. Their first full conversion of a golf course’s pumps and motors led to a reduction of about $60,000 on that golf course’s annual power bill. In the noncompetitive golfing business, the golf course was only too glad to show off. It gave Brithinee Electric permission to spread the news to the other 450 golf courses in Southern California. It was music to Wallace’s ears when he got a call from a Florida manufacturer of golf-course pump stations who was beside himself: “What did you guys do out there? We can’t sell our stations because we don’t have variable speed pumping.” Brithinee Electric had transformed the market.

The company went on to the even greener pastures of providing municipalities and water purveyors in California with variable-frequency drives and motor controls. This opened the floodgates for business. In the ’80/’90s, computers were becoming ubiquitous in offices and shop environments. Along with that, there was such rapid improvement that the population embraced replacements and upgrades every few years. That same sentiment carried over to the electronic drive business. Customers wanted new-and-improved technology and were eager to pay for it. Compare that to the motors, which had not changed in appearance or functionality since the 1960s.

In the 1990s, Brithinee Electric started into the business of motor control center construction for municipalities and obtained Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification. Wallace explains the significance of this for the company, “You can’t really be a UL house and a non-UL house at the same time.” This took Brithinee Electric into a whole new area. It began cooperating with Square D (since 1991 a subsidiary of Schneider Electric), which became Brithinee Electric’s biggest supplier for the component parts of motor control panels and its biggest customer, selling the finished products as add-on parts to contractors for municipal jobs. The relationship with Square D was good for business. After the closure of Square D’s Southern California plants, Brithinee Electric had to find other outlets for the assembled motor control panels, realizing that it needed enduser demand for its products.

In 1963, Brithinee Electric was exclusively a motor repair shop. By the mid-eighties, the sale of new motors plus the controls business had grown to over 75% of its revenue as a result of the conversion to electronics and the economics. Its repair business, as documented in a case-study from 1984 had shrunk to 25% of its revenue, and Wallace was quoted to say that he could only envision the repair revenue to continue shrinking in importance. In 1990, Wallace moved back to what he calls “the smoke and fury” of the motor-repair side of the business. After years of effort, the motor repair division grew back, to hold a 57% portion of the revenue.

The EASA years

Having first become active in EASA in 1976, Wallace had been invited to become a member of the Sales and Marketing Committee in 1980, and to become chairman in 1985. He was appointed to the international EASA board and chairman of the Engineering Committee in June 1990. Upon hearing this, the woman in his office who had worked there for over 24 years, a writer and friend of Elsie Dickson of Barks Publications, burst out laughing: “Wally, October 10, 2011, Mr. Benjy Nepomuceno, C.E.M.,(So. California Gas Company), Dr. Xin Xue, Wallace Brithinee. Receiving uTlity rebate check for oven and furnace upgrades.

In October 2011, Brithinee Electric was presented with a utility rebate check for oven and furnace upgrades. Present for the occasion were (from left) Benjy Nepomuceno of Southern California Gas Co., Dr. Xin Xue, and Wallace Brithinee. — Bill Butek photo

you’re not an engineer. I know, because I’m married to one.” Wallace shrugged his shoulders and gave a “I’m going to give it a try” smile. The EASA standards for motor repairs were already 35 years old. They urgently needed to be updated, particularly in view of the launch of ISO 9000 and IEEE 1068. No easy task. However, that is precisely what EASA officers asked Wallace to do.

By 1992, Wallace and his committee presented their first iteration of the EASA standards AR100. These were produced using the then somewhat scriptorium tools of PageMaker and Microsoft Word, and the design and layout were done by Wallace. Hard copies of the standards were met by a short standing ovation from incredulous board members. Wallace particularly remembers the contributions of EA Engineering Editor Richard Nailen, a prolific writer who had recently joined the committee. “Fortunately,” he adds, “we had really a good streak of EASA presidents and officers at that time, who said ‘We need this.’”

The Energy Policy Act of 1992

Simultaneously, the environmental movement in Canada and the U.S. was pressing for the use of more energy-efficient products, and, coincidentally, the Energy Policy Act was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in October 1992 as a response to the oil price shock resulting from Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. These events dramatically changed the motor industry in the U.S. New 1-500 hp motors would have to conform with the new energy efficiency standards.

Some manufacturers faced the colossal task of having to redesign their entire product lines. Some manufacturers used the law to argue against the repairability of new motors, or they contended that rewinding was a form of manufacturing, hence subject to the testing and labeling requirements that they faced as “original” manufacturers. A palpable fear went around the motor repair shops that they would be forced out of business. Energy efficiency and economic evaluations were not going away. However, Wallace, along with EASA government affairs chair Lynda Butek, met with a Dept. of Energy attorney in Washington. The attorney determined that the law did not apply to repaired electric motors. It only applied to the newly manufactured electric motors.

In this complex world, the task of the Engineering Committee was to elevate the status of the motor repair industry and secure its future by devising standards for the repair of energy-efficient motors. For example, one of the weak spots of the repair process was damage to the core iron, either occurring during the failure of the motor or by the stripping process, which may involve heat and abrasion. An economical test for core iron losses was developed. This became EASA Tech Note 17.Later, Hydro-Québec’s Laboratoire des technologies de l’energie (LTE) in Shawinigan, Québec, developed corollary results and evaluated the

In this complex world, the task of the Engineering Committee was to elevate the status of the motor repair industry and secure its future by devising standards for the repair of energy-efficient motors

commercially available core loss testers against the results derived from EASA’s Tech Note.

The tail wagging the dog

The Engineering Committee worked together with the giant Canadian electrical utilities, which were owned by the provincial governments. These were engaging with the motor repair shops with a carrotand-stick approach to promote and enforce best repair practices and the sale of energy-efficient products.

Despite the good intent of the utilities’ personnel, the repair shop people often regarded it as unwanted interference by a bunch of government engineers. For example, in one province, all the motor repair shops were audited twice per year, developing detailed data on actual repair practices, as well as the product mix of each repair firm. In addition, the utilities would anonymously send out brandnew motors that had been deliberately damaged, for rewind and repair. These repaired motors were then shipped to the certified test facility at LTE. Once efficiency testing was completed, the motors were disassembled and analyzed to determine specific shortcomings that caused degradation of the efficiency.

When a delegation of the Canadian utilities met with representatives of the EASA Engineering Committee, as well as Southern Cal Edison and Bonneville Power at the resplendent Hotel Del Coronado near San Diego, the results of their tests were, as Wallace recalls, “jaw dropping” and “humbling.” Something had to be done on both sides. It was “the (Canadian) tail wagging the (U.S.) dog,” Wallace says, referring to the much smaller population of Canada that was impacting and guiding the efforts of the much larger American repair population. The Americans saw it as a warning shot for U.S. repair shops, that the repair industry would have to get its house in order and promote compliance to best practices. It was felt that the wording of the energy legislation of 1992 would give regulators the ability to build on the legislation and to enforce compliance in some manner.

At the meeting in San Diego, the Canadian utilities requested that by the time they arrived back in Canada, the Engineering Committee should have come up with not more than ten “dos” and ten “don’ts” to be mailed to the Canadian machine repair shops before the next round of tests. These would also have to be translated into the Canadian French language. “It was a grueling period,” Wallace laughs. The seeming impatience of the Canadian utility persons stemmed from their perception that the tradespeople in Canada were not responding rapidly enough.

In Canada, end-users of motors were receiving utility incentives for purchasing energy-efficient

motors, and eventually incentives to take their work to shops that employed best practices. In some provinces, the utilities assisted in providing core iron testers. They even spoke about getting into the business of manufacturing core loss testers, and directly assisting the repairers. Arguing against the practice of end-user incentives in the U.S. to improve products and services, Wallace advocated for the Canadian approach of direct assistance for repair shops as being more cost-effective and helpful than dangling large rebates in front of end-users to encourage them to find compliant shops to patronize.

The best practices included performing core-loss tests when rewinding, before and after the coil stripping process, and restoring the relative losses to not more than 10% increase, and to fall within some rather broad range of acceptance values. The motor core iron is not tested in this manner by the original motor manufacturer, so no “factory-original” data is available as a target number.

At his own firm in California, once it had started faithfully doing core testing on core iron, Wallace realized after analyzing every test that the temperature settings of the ovens were crucial, and the ovens and controls had to be repaired. He adds, “Sometimes the regulators are pushing you on one point, but it helps you to make related changes.”

These efforts were commended by regulators and industry critics, and they attracted the attention of the environmentalists Ralph Nader and Amory Lovins. On April 30, 1996, Wallace was invited to attend the White House meeting convened by Vice President Al Gore Jr. to discuss the competitiveness of U.S. industry. In 2007, Vice President Gore would share the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in climate change. Wallace summarizes the work of the Engineering Committee: “The regulators pushed us to do better, we did better, we created a good set of guidelines, and that became the ANSI/EASA standards in 1998.” As sentiments at EASA about how to get the word out shifted away from direct dealings with governmental agencies towards publications, Wallace left to focus on issues back in California.

A second case study of 1994 entitled “Brithinee Revisited: Raising the Standard” was published in 2000 in a best-selling college textbook that brought star status to Brithinee Electric among undergraduate business students worldwide. It documented how the repair side of the business had flourished, while the sale of motor control centers had flattened out due to increased competition.

Research and development

Brithinee Electric’s profitability and reputation continued to grow as it invested in R&D and new technology. In the early 1990s, it was facing two pressing problems. 1) As the number of IGBT transistor

drives had grown, so had the number of motor windings experiencing premature failure when the motors were on variable-frequency drives. 2)Florida Power & Light, with whom Brithinee Electric worked, was the largest owner of wind generators in the U.S., and the largest owner of wind generators in California. They had fields experiencing a large number (sometimes 100% failure rate) of generator windings within the warranty period. Root cause failure analysis turned up quite a number of modes of failure, but a significant number were due to wire insulation failure.

In the mid-nineties, Brithinee Electric discovered that the problem for VFD-driven motors was caused by sparks from partial discharge eating away at the wire insulation, leading to the wire becoming shorted. Since partial discharge inception voltage of un-impregnated winding wire increases by the square root of the film thickness, increasing the wire’s film thickness by choosing quadruple-build film coating would boost the partial discharge inception voltage of un-impregnated coils to levels above 1,200 volts (on a 460 volt or 600 volt system). Impregnated windings were then tested, and partial discharge inception voltage usually was above 2,000 volts, which eliminated the damage to the wire.

The magnet (round) wire standards in the U.S., NEMA MW 1000, did not have a “standard” for film coated round wire called “quadruple build,” so that was made specially for Brithinee Electric, by extrapolation of the thicknesses for “double-build” and “triple-build”. Brithinee had to order large runs of the wire, even to experiment with it. By the end of the decade of the 1990s, NEMA had added definitions for “quadruple-build” magnet wire.

For wind generators, various control equipment was used, and the number of turns per coil in a slot was low, so “volts per turn” was possibly quite high. These often were random-wound machines, and increased film thickness, plus tougher top-coats, made the magnet wire more scratch-resistant and provided the added dielectric strength needed to eliminate the fatigue failures.

Please

Lunch at the Manufacturers’ Summit, Feb. 14, 2018. From left: Gary Patton, manager of Sulzer’s Colton plant (formerly Brithinee Electric); Wallace Brithinee; Dr. Richard Schrock, winner of the 2005 Nobel prize in Chemistry, now on University of California Riverside’s faculty. Dr. Schrock was invited to present Innovation Awards to the winning student team, which was from Harvey Mudd College.

Brithinee Electric partnered with researchers at the magnet wire manufacturer Essex Wire, the resin manufacturer Elantas PDG, and the DuPont Nomex division. All windings from Brithinee Electric were vacuum-pressure-impregnated with 100%-solids resin. Tougher and thicker insulation helped towards solving the problem. Later, the research investigated the use of magnet wire where the wire film resin and the impregnating resin had nanoparticles of silicon-dioxide, and this greatly increased partial discharge inception voltage.

The company also added a routine partial discharge inception voltage test for motors during final surge-test phase comparison to determine the voltage level motors would withstand before the occurrence of partial discharge. A game changer was the switch in its internal wire standard from the industry standard of double to quadruple build. Brithinee Electric went from one warranty failure every two months (out of 25,000 motors per year) to zero failures by year seven.

In 2010, Brithinee Electric built a new addition to its plant. Due to heightened air quality regulations in Southern California, new ovens had to be fitted with low-NOx burners, and the old ovens retrofitted with low-NOx burners. While these burners were considered troublesome to support, they provided better temperature regulation and none of the flames in a firebox under the parts being heated in the burn-off ovens. This resulted in even less damage to the core iron during the repair process. All these innovations and investments, including excellent failure analysis and customer service, helped Brithinee Electric gain a high profile with their customers.

After 55 years in the business, Wallace and Donald Brithinee decided, for personal reasons, to change horses. On Nov. 5, 2018, they sold Brithinee Electric to the Swiss-based global industrial engineering and manufacturing giant Sulzer Ltd.

A horse-drawn buggy pulled by racehorses

Wallace is still electrified by the passion to look into things, explore relationships, and spread the word. The work he does now is different, but just as exciting as “chasing smokestacks.” He attributes his untiring enthusiasm to working with talented and passionate people, describing this feeling as being in a “horse-drawn buggy pulled by racehorses.” In his current work, his California Chrome horses continue to pull on as front runners.

Wallace has been affiliated with the Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire (MCIE) for over 20 years. As president, one of his constant tasks now is to raise the visibility of the manufacturing sector among students enrolling in career technical programs. This is a complex and multifaceted issue with numerous stakeholders. It involves, among other things, the stagnant number of jobs in the low-visibility

After 55 years in the business, Wallace and Donald Brithinee decided, for personal reasons, to change horses. On Nov. 5, 2018, they sold Brithinee Electric to the Swissbased global industrial engineering and manufacturing giant Sulzer Ltd.

September of last year,

towards career technical education. Together with others, Wallace works on all these issues and more to help, as he says, “people go into the future.”

Manufacturers’ Council of the Inland Empire mee2ng at Church & Dwight Co., Inc., maker of “Arm & Hammer Baking Soda” and many other consumer products. Man at right is the plant manager of this new plant in Victorville, CA. Ceremony 3/19/2024.

Wallace serves on the Inland Empire/Desert Regional Consortium of community colleges’ K-12 Grant Selection Committee, with an annual statefunded budget of $25 million, which evaluates proposals for career-technical educational projects for primarily high schoolers. As a member of the Dean’s Council of Advisors at the Bourns College of Engineering, UC Riverside, he advises, among other things, on the make-up of the student body, curricular development, and research, and promotes understanding and cooperation between faculty and industry.

As he did at Brithinee Electric, Wallace continues to raise expectations and spread the word about “what’s in the secret sauce that makes the hamburger so tasty.” Wallace laughs. The past and future of the electric motor industry in the U.S. and education in California are forever interwoven with the words and actions of Wallace Brithinee and his brother, and the achievements of Brithinee Electric. EA

In

Wallace Brithinee kicked off a Manufacturers’ Council meeting at California Baptist University. — Molly Burgess photo

Feature | Motors & Generators

Heat index warning

Resistance temperature detectors in motors and generators

By Chase Fell, EA Contributing Writer

Resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) in industrial motors and generators play a crucial role in monitoring and controlling temperature, a critical parameter for ensuring reliability with safe and efficient operation of these machines. RTDs have advantages over other temperature sensing technologies due to their accuracy, stability, and reliability, and the integration of RTDs into predictive maintenance will most often enhance reliability and reduce downtime.

Thermocouple versus RTD

Thermocouples operate based on the Seebeck effect, a phenomenon in which two dissimilar metals are joined together at two junctions. When there is a temperature gradient between the junctions, a voltage is generated. This voltage is proportional to the temperature difference between the junctions. Simple thermocouples are often found in pilot systems for residential gas furnaces. RTDs function on the principle of the change in electrical resistance of certain metals or alloys with temperature. Thermocouples offer a wide temperature measurement range, typically from 200°C to 2300°C, making them suitable for high-temperature applications. RTDs have a more limited temperature range compared to thermocouples, typically from 200°C to 850°C.

Thermocouples generally have a lower accuracy compared to RTDs, with typical accuracies ranging from ±1°C to ±5°C. Accuracy can be affected by installation, the quality of the materials used, and the calibration of the sensor. RTDs generally deliver higher accuracy than thermocouples, typically ranging from ±0.1°C to ±1°C. Platinum RTDs (PT100 and PT1000) are widely used for industrial electric machines.

Thermocouples typically have a faster response time compared to RTDs due to their smaller mass and lower thermal inertia. And thermocouples generally have lower initial cost when compared to RTDs. Thermocouples may experience a performance deterioration over time due to oxidation or contamination of the thermocouple junctions. RTDs are often chosen for their stability when compared to thermocouples in the same application. An RTD gives a reading that is the average temperature of the two abutting coil sides over the length of the sensing

a

These detectors are installed in the stator slot between the top and bottom coils. For the most accurate temperature monitoring, the stator temperature sensor should be installed at the hottest location in a slot where coils of the same phase are in the same slot. Six sensors are recommended for each motor, two per phase. Spares are recommended. — Chase Fell photo

element. A thermocouple measures the temperature of the spot where the thermocouple junction is located between the two coil sides.

Principles of RTDs

As a result of the metal properties in the device, RTDs exhibit a predictable change in resistance in response to changes in temperature. This

A 13.8 kV industrial motor winding with thin strip RTDs embedded in

conductive filler.

strument using two wires. While this setup is relatively straightforward, it is also susceptible to inaccuracies inherent in lead wire resistance. The resistance of the connecting wires introduces errors, especially when routed over long distances. This resistance can compromise temperature measurement precision of the RTD. The two-wire configuration is typically limited to short distances and low-accuracy applications.

The bearing RTD probe body houses and supports the sensing element and sheath, providing structural integrity and facilitating installation into the structure of the motor or generator assembly. Constructed from materials such as stainless steel or nickel alloys, the probe body must exhibit high mechanical strength and resistance to thermal expansion to withstand the mechanical stresses and temperature fluctuations inherent in industrial operations.

RTDs continued from previous page

— Andrei Kuzmik / Shutterstock photo

resistance change follows a mostly linear relationship over a specified temperature range, giving dependable and precise process temperature measurement. The variation of resistance of the metal with the variation of the temperature is given as:

Rt = R0 [ 1+ (t−t0) + (t−t0)2 ]

. . . where Rt and R0 are the resistance values at a temperature t°C and another temperature t0°C.  and  are constants and depend on the metals used in the device.

RTDs are commonly built with copper, nickel, or platinum. Properties of these metals have different resistance variations with changes in temperature. For platinum, its resistance changes by approximately 0.4 ohms per degree Celsius of temperature change. The nominal resistance of an RTD is the pre-specified resistance value at a given temperature. Standards often call for 100 ohms at 0°C, but other resistances are available, including 50, 200, 400, 500, 1000 and 2000 ohms.

The RTD standard often used in North America is ASTM E1137, Standard Specification for Industrial Platinum Resistance Thermometers. The European standard is DIN IEC 60751, Industrial Platinum Resistance Thermometers and Platinum Temperature Sensors.

Some RTDs are built with the sensing metal wound around a ceramic or glass core. The unit is built into an ultra-thin assembly encapsulated in a laminated epoxy or ceramic covering. For industrial RTDs, the coil is often protected by a stainless-steel sheath, phenolic covering, or a protective tube. Most stator RTDs use a coated copper conductor with wire size in the range of 22 AWG to 30 AWG.

RTD wiring configurations

The two-wire configuration is the simplest wiring setup for RTDs. In this arrangement, the RTD is connected directly to the measuring in-

To mitigate the effects of lead wire resistance, the three-wire configuration is often a good solution for medium and large motors and generators. Two of the wires are connected to the RTD, forming a Wheatstone bridge. The third wire serves as a common connection point. This setup compensates for the resistance of the lead wires and thus enhances measurement accuracy. By measuring the voltage drop across the bridge, the effects of lead wire resistance can be effectively canceled out, resulting in more precise temperature readings. The three-wire configuration is commonly used in industrial applications where moderate accuracy is required.

The four-wire configuration represents the most accurate wiring setup for RTDs. Like the three-wire configuration, this design also sets up a Wheatstone bridge arrangement. However, in the four-wire setup, two wires are dedicated to passing current through the RTD, while the other two wires are used to measure the voltage drop across the RTD. This configuration eliminates the influence of lead wire resistance, providing highly accurate temperature measurements even over long distances. As a result, the four-wire configuration is preferred for critical applications demanding greatest accuracy, such as in precision motors and generators used in aerospace, nuclear or medical equipment.

Industrial applications

In formed coil windings, a thin strip RTD is most often installed in a stator slot between the top and bottom coils. For the most accurate temperature monitoring, the stator temperature sensor should be installed in a slot where coils of the same phase are in the same slot. Six sensors are recommended for each motor, two per phase. Sensors should be located near the hottest point of the windings for best performance. For extra insurance, it’s good practice

to install spare sensors in the stator. Sample stock thicknesses for stator RTDs range from 1/32 to 1/8 , and thicker sizes are available. Stator RTDs are available in varying lengths depending on application.

Relay settings for stator winding RTDs should be determined based on ambient temperature, the nameplate rise of the machine, the loading and consideration of OEM recommendations, and production risks. The NEMA Class F insulation system is rated at 155°C continuous. A sample approach to relay settings for a Class F system might be warning at 125°C, alarm at 135°C, and trip at 145°C.

RTDs are also utilized to monitor the temperature of motor bearings. Excessive bearing temperatures can indicate lubrication issues, bearing wear, misalignment, or other mechanical problems. By detecting abnormal temperatures early, bearing RTDs help prevent premature bearing failure, reduce maintenance costs, and avoid unplanned downtime. Continuous monitoring of bearing temperatures is particularly critical in high-speed or heavy-duty applications where bearing wear is more prevalent. RTDs can be used in motors and generators to monitor rolling element bearings and sleeve bearings.

The bearing RTD probe body houses and supports the sensing element and sheath, providing structural integrity and facilitating installation into the structure of motor or generator assembly. Constructed from materials such as stainless steel or nickel alloys, the probe body must exhibit high mechanical strength and resistance to thermal expansion to withstand the mechanical stresses and temperature fluctuations inherent in industrial operations. The design of the probe body may incorporate features such as threaded fittings or mounting flanges to facilitate secure attachment to the motor or generator housing.

The most common bearing RTDs are connected to the controller with standard copper conductors. But with radio frequency technology and battery power, RTD data can now be transmitted without wires. Wireless communication protocols such as Zigbee, LoRaWAN, and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) have been used to facilitate the transmission of temperature data from RTD sensors to central monitoring systems. Wireless RTD sensors are equipped with analog front-end circuitry for converting the resistance variation of the RTD element into an electrical signal.

This signal undergoes analog-to-digital conversion before being modulated onto a carrier wave compliant with the wireless protocol. The modulated signal is then transmitted wirelessly using radio frequency (RF) communication techniques. Challenges such as power consumption optimization, signal interference, and security considerations must be addressed to ensure the robustness and reliability of

wireless RTD systems in industrial settings.

The American Bearing Manufacturers Association recommends relay settings for bearing RTD systems. Warning setting for bearings is often fixed at approximately 80°C, alarm at 90°C, and trip setting at 100°C. These are general guidelines. Application and bearing manufacturer recommendations should be considered for actual in-service settings.

RTDs also play a vital role in monitoring and controlling the temperature of cooling systems used in industrial electric motors. RTDs are often integrated into cooling systems, such as coolant jackets or oil cooling systems, to monitor heat transfer efficiency. By continuously monitoring coolant or oil temperature, RTDs can enable automatic adjustments to cooling system components, such as fans or pumps, to maintain the motor’s temperature within safe operating limits.

RTDs can also be used to optimize the energy efficiency of industrial electric motors. By monitoring motor temperature under varying load conditions, RTDs provide valuable data for assessing motor performance and identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements. Adjustments to operating parameters, such as speed control or load management, can be made based on real-time temperature feedback

Relay settings for stator winding RTDs should be determined based on ambient temperature, the nameplate rise of the machine, the loading and consideration of OEM recommendations, and production risks. The NEMA Class F insulation system is rated at 155°C continuous. A sample approach to relay settings for a Class F system might be warning at 125°C, alarm at 135°C, and trip at 145°C.

— Chase Fell photo

from RTDs to optimize motor efficiency while minimizing energy consumption.

Disadvantages

RTDs often rely on direct contact with the medium whose temperature is being measured. For industrial environments, this medium may contain contaminants such as dust, oil, or moisture. Contamination can affect the accuracy and reliability of RTD measurements over time, especially if the RTD element becomes coated or fouled, leading to erroneous temperature readings and potential equipment damage. Industrial motors and generators are subjected to significant levels of vibration and mechanical stress during operation. RTDs, which typically consist of a fine wire wound around a core, can be sensitive to mechanical stress and vibration. This sensitivity can lead to inaccu-

The two-wire configuration is the simplest wiring setup for RTDs. In this arrangement, the RTD is connected directly to the measuring instrument using two wires. While this setup is relatively straightforward, it is also susceptible to inaccuracies inherent in lead wire resistance.

rate temperature readings or even physical damage to the RTD element, compromising its reliability and longevity.

Testing new RTDs

New RTDs should be tested for ground insulation resistance with a test voltage of 500 VDC. Connect the positive lead of the tester to RTD leads and the negative test leads to the case. After a successful insulation resistance test, most RTDs should pass a 20003000 V RMS a-c high-potential test for one minute. Conduct another insulation resistance test to make sure the hipot did not degrade the insulation. Compare the final IR results to the pre-test values.

Resistance temperature detectors are indispensable tools for temperature monitoring in industrial motors and generators. Their high accuracy, stability, and wide temperature range make them ideal for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these critical assets. By integrating RTDs into predictive maintenance strategies, industrial operators can enhance reliability, extend equipment lifespan, and minimize costly downtime, ultimately improving overall productivity and profitability. EA

Sample thicknesses for stator RTDs range from 1/32-inch to 1/8-inch. Stator RTDs are available in varying lengths depending on application. Some RTDs are built with the sensing metal wound around a ceramic or glass core. The unit is built into an ultra-thin assembly encapsulated in a laminated epoxy or ceramic covering. For industrial RTDs, the coil is often protected by a stainless-steel sheath, a phenolic covering, or a protective tube. — Chase Fell photo

— Chase Fell photo

Feature | Finance & The Workplace

M&A on a roll

At a time when middle-market mergers and acquisitions are strong, it’s good to know the basic rules of the game

By William H. Wiersema, CPA, EA Contributing Editor

Mergers and acquisitions continue strong in the middle-market. Business owners see their peers’ companies sold every day. The Capstone blog provided reasons for optimism about 2024, including high public company valuations, more realistic seller expectations, more favorable financing, and potential interest rate cuts. While leveraged buyers confronted higher interest rates and new deductibility limits in 2023, the impact on activity was relatively mild.

As premier participants, private equity groups (PEs) have fundamentally transformed the middle market. Through PE, investors can access the benefits of owning closely held businesses. Tom Goldblatt, managing partner of Ravinia Capital LLC, cited statistics in a recent presentation that PEs own 50% of middle-market companies and that 50% of middlemarket transactions are between PEs.

A strategy that has become prevalent is to “roll-up” or combine smaller businesses into a larger whole to generate value.

Pursue ‘multiple arbitrage’

A business’s cash flow determines its valuation, financing, and buyer assessment. A surrogate for cash flows is adjusted earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). Prices paid for middle-market businesses can range from a three- to ten-times multiple of adjusted EBITDA. So, a company with an adjusted EBITDA of $1 million is worth approximately $3 to $10 million. Before applying multiples to EBITDA, negotiated adjustments reflect non-recurring items, non-normal expenses, non-market owner compensation and benefits, and non-conforming accounting principles.

Smaller businesses sell for lower multiples. Due to limited resources, market volatility, and less established track records, they are associated with higher risk. Larger companies have more diversified revenue streams, established customer bases, and stability.

This disparity allows buyers to gain value through roll-ups to achieve “multiple arbitrage,” which means increasing the value of a company without making operational improvements — in other words, arbitraging the multiple at which a company is bought and sold. Without multiple arbitrage, after considering a six-year hold, transaction costs, and taxes while op-

erating, a company bought at a five multiple for all cash might generate only a 10% return for investors. Multiple arbitrage along with leverage and a touch of growth can often triple those returns.

Roll-ups involve acquiring companies starting with a “platform” followed by “add-ons.” These acquisitions are typically made in fragmented industries toward creating a larger company that is more valuable than the sum of its parts. PEs possess operational expertise and management sophistication to help their companies grow. They pool capital to support and provide value to companies they invest in. Rolling up businesses can also improve profitability and cash flow, positively impacting the EBITDA multiple. Larger scale can attract the attention of capital providers, investors, and potential buyers.

Roll-ups create a more robust and diversified entity that can offer a broader range of products or services, reach a wider customer base, and potentially dominate a niche market segment. Customers can access comprehensive services under one roof, enhancing the company’s competitive position. Diversification across industries or geographies reduces investor risk. A combined entity is less dependent on a single market or product.

— Illustration by Bing generative AI

As applied to service businesses, electromechanical may be complementary to other specialties such as electric vehicle conversion consultation and maintenance, electrical installations, and industrial automation. Complementary seasonality and access to large customers add potential benefits for strategic buyers. The combined entity also achieves synergies, such as streamlined operations, joint marketing efforts, and shared resources. Operational synergies may take the form of elimination of duplicate functions, economies in purchasing and distribution, and improvement in management and processes.

Roll-up service businesses

Notable transactions in the electromechanical services industry include Motion & Control Enterprises’ purchase of Piedmont Electric Motor Repair, Inc., earlier this year as the ninth acquisition in a roll-up. The most recent prior one was Pasadena, Tex.-based process filtration product distributor Filter Resources. Another notable strategic buyer is Integrated Power Services, which has acquired a number of companies in recent years, including, this past April, Swiger Coil Systems. Koontz-Wagner Services, founded in 1921, had its first private equity transaction in 2008 and has had others since.

While electromechanical services have fewer data points, private sources report hundreds of transactions for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning companies. Although declining during the pandemic, HVAC, unlike other industries, shows some stability, averaging a 4.8 multiple for companies having an enterprise value of under $10 million. While varying within a 3.8 to 5.8 range, electromechanical service company multiples tend to be higher, while those for electrical contractors are lower. Multiples in industries directly impacted by the pandemic, such as aircraft MROs, are much more volatile.

Size matters in valuation. Based on average multiples for HVAC transactions, five companies bought at a 4 multiple for $400,000 each, for a total $2 million investment, can sell for $2.75 million, based on a 5.5 multiple. As companies become even larger, multiples of 8 or 9 are possible.

PE roll-ups in HVAC are widely discussed. As Ted Polk wrote in “Robust Backlogs Fuel Servicing Contracts and M&A Activity in HVAC Services Market” last November, “Private equity firms have continued to deploy capital towards the HVAC Services market, despite a markedly down year in the broader market for private equity activity. . . . [T]he non-cyclical nature that characterizes the HVAC Services market has attracted private strategics and financial buyers to the space. The Residential HVAC Services space has been a focal point for consolidation as it has provided recurring revenues through biannual inspections, constant maintenance, and repairs.”

Ted Craig stated in ACHR News: “PE companies get the biggest payoff when they sell a business. Usually, this happens when a company grows to size beyond the range of that firm’s model. So far, there has been a bigger buyer for every HVAC company, such as the Partners Group buying Reedy Industries from Audax Private Equity.”

Market collaboratively

Nothing prevents sellers from collaborating with owners of complementary businesses when going to market to create a more prominent target that would attract larger buyers. Combining sellers is a frequent investment banking strategy.

Beyond those you know, contact with brokers that offer businesses for sale is helpful, as is being aware of broker organizations. Internet

websites, such as www.mergernetwork.com, contain listings of companies offered for sale. One helpful organization is the International Business Brokers Association, whose website is www.ibba.org. Another is the Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors, website www.amaaonline.com. These international organizations have many chapters, which provide a continuing source of opportunities and timely education sessions.

However, most smaller companies that sell were never officially listed by a broker. “Buyside” brokers assist buyers in directly contacting companies that might be of interest through cold mailings to companies listed in databases. They target companies according to industry, revenue size, and geographic region.

Partnering up is just the beginning. It takes much effort to see a deal through to closing. Transactions fall apart for many reasons. For example, business performance may decline after engaging with a buyer. If the target’s cash flow goes negative, only accounts receivable and inventory should be purchased, with any additional being made contingent on future results.

Conversely, the target business may bring in a significant new customer and expect more money from the buyer. They may insist on a higher price up front rather than a contingent future payment. However, banks usually do not cover it. A contingent earnout may be needed to bridge the gap.

Engaging deal-savvy professionals is critical to success. To start, a valuation assures that the business is not underpriced and that the price is adequately supported. In this manner, the seller gains leverage in the transaction. Valuations draw on discounted cash flows, asset values, market price multiples, and other drivers, which may be improved through management efforts.

The next essential step is preparing an offering memorandum. Elements include a business description and plan, which highlight competition and strategic opportunities. Because it is a specialized document, sellers should engage a business broker or investment banker to assist. These intermediaries have experience in marketing businesses, screening buyers, and negotiating the best deal. They present the business in the best possible light while maintaining confidentiality.

Intermediaries also help screen buyers. A buyer without management acumen or personal resources will have a tough time post-closing. To the degree that the transaction includes seller rollover equity, financing, compensation, or earnout, these amounts are risked. If possible, the seller should obtain security for future buyer payments beyond the assets of the business sold, such as the buyer’s personal assets or ownership interests in other businesses. EA

Updates on the U.S. energy workforce

Employment trends and funding needs are revealed in recent reports and statements

By Charlie Barks, EA Managing Editor

Based on surveys of tens of thousands of U.S. energy sector employers, the U.S. Energy and Employment Report, or USEER, is a comprehensive summary of national and state-level energy jobs, reporting by industry, technology, and region with data on unionization rates, demographics, and employer perspectives on growth and hiring.

The USEER began in 2016 to better track and understand employment within key energy sectors that have been difficult to follow using other publicly available data sources. The study combines surveys of businesses with public labor data to produce estimates of employment and workforce characteristics.

As the private sector continues to tout major investments in American-produced energy under the current federal administration, the 2023 USEER shows that the energy workforce added almost 300,000 jobs from 2021 to 2022 (+3.8% growth), outpacing the growth rate of the overall U.S. workforce, which grew by 3.1%. Clean energy jobs increased in every state and grew 3.9% nationally. With the administration’s stated goal of an electrical grid run on 100% carbon-free sources by 2035 and a net-zero economy by 2050, energy jobs are expected to see continued growth in every pocket of America.

The 2023 USEER also found that employers are seeing the benefits of strong unions. Employers with unionized workforces reported substantially less difficulty with hiring skilled workers than nonunionized employers.

The report also provides demographic data that can help companies as well as federal, state, and local groups better understand workforce trends and shed light on opportunities for workforce recruitment and training programs to build a more representative workforce.

As a sidecar to this burgeoning industry, funding for the much-heralded energy transition, which implies the national shift towards cleaner energy sourcing, continues to be a key topic of discussion.

On one hand, the U.S. Dept. of Energy released its latest report on its Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) program last month. The program aims to help local governments, electric utilities, communi-

ty-based groups, and other decision makers realize their clean energy goals with innovative modeling and testing tools developed at DOE’s world-class national laboratories, according to a government website.

The first annual report on this program, covered in a webinar April 18, detailed the DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s work benefiting more than 200 communities, including a pilot project supporting an Alaska utility’s transition from coal to clean energy, and active in-depth partnerships in Chicago; Colorado Springs; Delaware Valley, Pennsylvania and New Jersey; Moloka’i, Hawaii; Pittsburgh; and Sitka, Alaska.

However, this funding may be revealing some of its realistic limits. On April 22, investment firm BlackRock estimated that the world’s green energy transition will require $4 trillion annually by the mid2030s, calling for more public-private partnerships, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.

The forecast comes from BlackRock’s latest Investment Institute Transition Scenario, which analyzes how the low-carbon transition is most likely to play out and its potential impact on portfolios. Last year’s prediction was that $1.8 trillion would be required annually, so BlackRock’s viewpoint has gotten less optimistic when it comes to the global energy transition, towards which the U.S. would have to be a major contributor. EA

The U.S. Dept. of Energy’s C2C in-depth technical partnership pilot helped an Alaska utility develop a plan to keep the lights on ahead of a coal plant retirement. — Golden Valley Electric Association photo

Product Showcase

The newest and best in tools and equipment for the plant and shop

Tormach’s new CNC mill and robotic arm

Tormach, Inc., of Monona, Wis., is releasing a new CNC mill that it says “marks a signi cant leap forward in power, precision, and a ordability within the CNC machining landscape.” The high-speed cutting machine combines professional-grade capabilities with compact versatility and o ers “unparalleled performance at a fraction of the cost of competitive models,” according to Tormach.

Hybrid industrial snow removal equipment

Automation supplier Chang Industrial (Chang Robotics) is partnering with Kodiak Technologies and Roush to provide the snow removal industry with hybrid industrial snow blower equipment. The collective team aims to deliver the hybrid equipment in 2025 to as many airports and federal, state, and local municipalities as possible.

Dewalt expands electrical trade portfolio

Towson, Md.-based Dewalt, the well-known tool brand under the Stanley Black & Decker umbrella, recently unveiled several new tools for the electrical trades. New product innovations include the 20 V MAX hydraulic knockout tool, the 20 V MAX XR brushless cordless mid-size bandsaw, and the 20 V MAX XR brushless, cordless dual-trigger bandsaw. The knockout tool delivers up to 11 tons of force and maximizes precision in punch alignment. The knockout dies contain embedded magnets that securely attach to mild steel. The tool punches split slugs ranging from 1/2 in. to 2 in. for ease of use in disassembling the system once the knockout is complete.

Low-noise quartz crystal frequency control

At a newly constructed manufacturing and design center on Penn State’s Erie, Pa., campus, Kyocera Components Corp. is now producing more than 1.2 million patented low-power, oven-controlled crystal oscillators. The company is also rolling out a variety of temperature-compensated crystal oscillators, voltage-controlled crystal oscillators, high-precision AT-, SC-, IT-, and FC-cut crystals, quartz and lead zirconate titanate, lithium niobate, langatate, and yttrium calcium oxyborate transducer blanks. These low-noise quartz crystal frequency control products suppress phase noise, withstand random and micro vibrations, endure low-gravity environments, maintain frequency stability, and endure fast and wide temperature variations, according to the company.

Design services for sensors and actuators

A.M. Fitzgerald & Associates, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) product development company, and Sumitomo Precision Products Co. Ltd.’s MEMS In nity — which operates a MEMS silicon wafer foundry — recently announced a strategic and technical alliance to expedite the commercialization of thin- lm PZT MEMS chip technologies. PZT is a versatile piezoelectric material that’s sought after for MEMS sensors and actuators serving high-growth applications, such as true wireless stereo, automotive LiDAR, medical ultrasound imaging, AR/ VR, haptics, and other applications that require precise performance in a robust, ultra-miniaturized form factor.

Microcontrollers for automotives

Marelli is showcasing its latest zone control unit (“Zone”), built in collaboration with In neon. The adoption of In neon’s AURIX TC4x microcontrollers in the Zones are designed to bring bene ts to OEMs. AURIX TC4x are placed in speci c zones of a vehicle and manage various functions, consolidating electronic control units from multiple domains. The special data routing engine within the microcontrollers aims to yield low latency levels when connecting CAN and Ethernet, enabling the Zones to consolidate numerous electronic computing units into a single piece of hardware. The microcontrollers support hardware virtualization, an element of next-generation zonal architecture, enabling parallel execution of multiple virtual machines and therefore disparate domain and safety applications within the same “Zone.” — Chelsea Fisher EA

Phased-out products

Servicers and operators of HVACR systems need to familiarize themselves with new restrictions on Refrigerant-22

By Bill O’Leary, EA Contributing Writer

In January of 2020, Refrigerant-22, or R-22 as it’s more commonly known, was essentially renamed as R-86’ed - it was the persona non grata of the refrigerant world due to its ability to damage the ozone layer when released into the air. Production and import of the refrigerant in the U.S. was banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the final dramatic stage of a structured phase-out that began in 2014.

R-22 is a chemical used in heat pumps and air conditioners, so the regulation was particularly relevant to large HVACR manufacturers such as Trane and Goodman. It also serves as the vital lifeblood for the inner workings of HVACR equipment, flowing amidst the coils and transforming between liquid and gas states from pressure provided by evaporators, condensers, and compressors. These altered states give off heat to or absorb heat from the air, changing the surrounding temperature.

R-22 is one of a whole series of misfit toys in the industrial sector, like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), pesticides, lead-based paints, and mercury-infused thermometers and switches that can cause significant safety and health dangers if not properly addressed.

Where to start?

So what options are available for industrial facilities to address these phased-out products, and how can manufacturers, distributors, and other major players in the space avoid costly repairs and penalties from staying ahead of the regulatory curve? At times, it can feel like “Phaseout Whack-A-Mole,” where you’re continuously addressing violations and outdated machinery, materials, and substances across the plant or shop floor.

For situations like R-22, where a traditional ubiquitous substance is so embedded in important HVACR machinery, you probably already have it and don’t even know it, until an upgrade or repair comes around. In which case, you’re met with the ol’ faithful fork-in-the-road of . . . repair or replace?

Post-regulation, new HVACR systems needed to be completely redesigned and tested to ensure they were in compliance. New refrigerants needed to be developed to con rm that any adverse e ects did not approach that of R-22. And customers felt the squeeze as well. While use of a R-22 refrigerant heat pump system or air conditioner is allowed, HVACR installation and repair companies strongly encourage the transition to R410A, a chlorine-free refrigerant that operates at higher pressures and doesn’t have the ozone depleting qualities of R-22.

If that system needs a repair that includes refrigerants, the only options are new non-R22 refrigerants and/or a full system replacement. The elevated pressures of the R410A do not align with the parts from a R-22 system, so any attempt to retro t an R410A into that legacy system can lead to signi cant ruptures of parts. So those systems must be completely replaced, which means higher installation costs. If the issue is isolated to the refrigerant, you may be able to dodge a costly system or part repair/replace, but the wide reach of the EPA regulation has drastically limited supply, causing a lack of availability and higher prices due to that scarcity. In some cases, the cost of an R-22 repair may be higher than a down payment on an entirely new system. Also, it’s only a matter of time until the refrigerant is completely removed from the market, so the most relevant question could be whether you’re comfortable kicking the can down the road while using a substance that is proven harmful to the environment.

Other phased-out materials

For other phased-out products like asbestos-containing materials, styrofoam, and cadmium batteries, a multi-pronged compliance approach could be the most e ective. Be vigilant within your own space. Conduct quarterly assessments of all relevant machinery and materials to ensure they contain only elements that are in compliance with all EPA and other government agency regulations.

Keeping manuals, paperwork, and additional documentation is also a must. These resources will often provide that speci c data you need for compliance veri cation and risk mitigation. Choose a designated worker like a oor manager or an experienced, tenured employee and build that into their responsibilities to solidify these audits in your process. Also, train and empower your employees to identify any potential risks. Create a culture where this behavior is encouraged and rewarded so workers are con dent raising health, safety, and ethical concerns without fear of retaliation.

Supplier vetting is another proactive measure. Communicating compliance expectations clearly at the outset of the relationship, making it contingent on moving forward, and asking for the necessary information to validate any claims are diligent screening steps to make your e orts sustainable.

Also on that front, for manufacturers, sustainable sourcing of materials for production, packaging, and shipping can reduce the reliance on harmful substances. There are plenty of eco-friendly and non-hazardous materials available, and

resources to point you in the right direction. PakFactory, a packaging blog, has a detailed guide to eco-friendly packaging on its site (pakfactory.com/blog) that includes information on molded pulp, corrugated cardboard and recyclable, compostable, and reusable packaging.

Beyond suppliers, additional outside support can be found by consulting with legal and regulatory experts. Guidance can be provided on navigating complex regulations, standards, and laws. Regulatory bodies such as the EPA have a wealth of information to ensure a safe workplace, such as the Restricted Use List for Pesticides and the Safer Chemical Ingredients List.

For our readers in the European Union, the EU’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) is a mandatory directive to protect the public health and the environment by restraining the use of lead, cadmium, mercury, and other dangerous materials in electronic products. More detailed information on the law can be found by going to https://environment.ec.europa.eu/ index and searching for the directive by name.

Staying ahead of the curve can seem pretty easy after realizing the swath of relevant options available both inside and outside of a company. But ultimately ensuring compliance over time is a decision and one that has to be made by prioritizing the safety and health of employees, customers, and as the negative impact of R-22 shows, everyone on this beautiful green orb of ours. EA

Coaching vs. managing

The world of sports provides us with a useful analogy we can use when coordinating the work of others

By Bill O’Leary, EA Contributing Writer

Vince Lombardi, Phil Jackson, Ozzie Guillen . . . three coaches who are synonymous with sports excellence. But increasingly the role and the responsibilities that title entails are being linked to managerial excellence in the business world.

The idea of transferring the skills from the playing field to the meeting room took root in the 1970s. In The Inner Game of Tennis, Timothy Gallwey wrote about how coaching principles could be applied to professional fields, since the method focuses on improving performance from the dual focus of self-correction and self-awareness.

The idea began to grow in the 1990s as organizations across a whole collection of industries prioritized more employee-centered and collaborative approaches. Managers were encouraged to get out of their isolated, spacious offices and spearhead the team from the front lines, to lead by example with a clipboard in hand.

The basics of coaching

Formal programs, certifications, and additional guidance were created in reaction to the integration of coaching into management practice and the various benefits that follow. Today, the “coach as manager” has flourished, with its advocates professing that it should be the one true approach to leadership and development.

But what does coaching truly look like here? Focal points include engagement where coaches zero in on motivating their employees through inspiration and clarity of direction. This is meant to create a positive and collaborative relationship where the manager is a frequent, approachable partner. The bonds are further strengthened with more consistent feedback.

No longer will the manager wait until the mid-year or year-end reviews to provide opinions on performance. According to Gallup, employees who receive daily feedback from their manager are three times more likely to be engaged than those who receive feedback once a year or less. In It’s the Manager: Moving From Boss to Coach, a book that includes data from multiple studies on the future of the workplace from Gallup, authors Jim Clifton and Jim Harter expand on this idea, stating that managers should give their employees meaningful feedback at least once a week. It’s encouraged that these conversations happen in varied settings, as quick daily check-ins, chats through e-mail, or in structured developmental meetings. The nature of the feedback is important as well. It shouldn’t be punitive, overly critical, or

Chart at left: There are several parallels between coaching a team and managing a group of employees, and the analogy can be put to work to improve the productivity of a business’s “team.” — Findcourses.com graphic

nit-picky. It should always be framed from the perspective of growth and development.

In coaching, feedback is a two-way street. The manager/coach solicits feedback from his or her reports, listens attentively, and responds accordingly. Mutual accountability can lessen the heightened power dynamic at play and can increase engagement. And deep, sustainable engagement is instrumental in creating a positive work culture. The need is more alarming when quanti ed in dollars. According to Gallup, in the U.S., the cost of lost productivity and poor management from not-engaged or actively disengaged employees is between $960 billion and $1.2 trillion per year; the cost balloons to $7 trillion or 9%-10% of GDP. A stark reminder of how important an engaged workforce is beyond the positive culture it creates.

Empowered employees

The increased coaching support over time should allow employees to build their con dence and empower them to make their own decisions. Empowerment is another key structural element of coaching. The goal of coaching is not to give orders and have the employees autonomously carry them out. It’s to create a space where the employee is inspired and trusted enough to make their own informed decisions. This results from common coaching activities such as promoting critical thinking, coordinating brainstorming sessions, encouraging collaboration, and creating training opportunities when necessary. Actions speak louder than words, and this level of constructive attention shows the company is invested in the employee. Noticing this, the employee becomes equally invested in the company, strengthening performance and engagement.

Employees should be empowered to contribute to tasks previously reserved for managers only, such as goal setting. (We covered the importance of setting clear, measurable, and impactful goals every year in “Get smart about setting goals” in the December 2023 Electrical Apparatus.) Results from a Gallup survey show that when employees are involved in goal-setting with the manager, they are nearly four times more

likely to be engaged than employees who were not included. The scope of goals widens as well with more attention given to personal development. In the traditional management style, goals are broader company or team-based with clear results such as increasing revenue, streamlining costs, and gaining market share.

These are important goals that should be maintained and prioritized for the health of the business, but coaching allows for more customized goals that include training, stretch assignments, and interaction with di erent areas of the business. An employee’s growth from expanding skills and focusing on strengths are common outputs of the coaching-to-goals approach. However, it’s important to note that employeespeci c and company-speci c goals should not be treated as binary elements. A rising tide lifts all boats. An empowered employee who develops in key areas can more e ectively contribute to the long-term organizational goals

How to become a coach

So as a manager, you may be thinking, “Hey, this all sounds nice, but how do I become a coach?” Here are a few tips to get you started. Prioritize listening. A coach provides support and guidance but often the quality of those e orts comes from active listening to the employee’s needs, hopes, and challenges. Create a space where your employees are comfortable expressing how the work can improve, how they would like to develop etc.

Exercising those communication skills is a must for a great coach because so much of the role is having more interactions over time like daily check-ins, weekly feedback sessions (for you and the employee), team meetings, brainstorming exercises, and team outings. Help employees identify their strengths and encourage them to lean in on those strengths to achieve their goals as opposed to spending your time identifying gaps or weaknesses. A strength-based approach can help maximize an employee’s potential.

Ask open-ended questions to stimulate problem-solving instead of dominating the conversation and acting like

you have all the answers. This encourages employees to take ownership of their work and develop their critical thinking skills. Finally, lead by example and be exible. Embody and model the qualities described in this article and adapt your style based on the person and the situation. What works for one might not be nearly as e ective for another. This certainly doesn’t mean you need to be a coach chameleon, morphing between a whole number of di erent styles to suit everyone. By maintaining the core tenets of engagement, communication, and empowerment, a coach can successfully maintain that consistency while adjusting approaches accordingly. Ultimately, think about all the great coaches in your life, the successful transformative leaders who embrace their namesake by residing on the sideline with the team, driving performance by nurturing growth and fostering relationships. The coaches who are as successful on the eld as they are in the locker room. The coaches who inspire teams to championships. That could be you. EA

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

Expanding motor manufacturing capabilities

Reuland Electric Motor Co. is eager to spread the news that it’s expanding its operations, with four new or expanded facilities. With more than 85 years of experience, Reuland is known for its ability to engineer and manufacture electric motors for a diverse range of applications, including crane and hoist, moveable bridges and structures, ships and shipbuilding, military, and industrial.

The company is expanding, Reuland says, “in a big way.” Reuland is moving its California operation to three new facilities also in California, each dedicated to a particular aspect of the company’s manufacturing process: foundry operations for producing motor frames and end bells; a separate machining facility for producing shafts and machining all components with full CNC capability; and a separate motor assembly facility for stator core winding, assembly, and testing.

Reuland is simultaneously expanding its Michigan operations for additional capacity. The company’s operations in Howell, Mich., include a specialized lamination, rotor, and stator core-making facility and complete motor winding, assembly, and testing.

A drive technology that’s new to the U.S.

The Wolong team tells us they’re excited about the EASA Conference & Exhibition this year. The company will have a large booth featuring its signature GE motors manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico. And the company will be introducing, new for North America, what it describes as “a proven medium-voltage drive technology utilized well in Europe and Asia” along with a line of Wolong permanent-magnet assisted synchronous reluctance (PM-SYR) motors. PM-SYR motors, the company says, feature very high energyefficiency and power density at lower power ranges with high starting torques. Wolong’s product and technology team will also be on hand to discuss technical details with visitors. Wolong declares that “both new offerings will help shape the future of motors and drives in the Americas and will be well worth your time to see!”

Innovative pump replacement parts

HT Aftermarket Products plans to have its innovative and value-engineered replacement parts on display. This will be the company’s twelfth year in business since attending its first EASA Convention in Nashville back in 2012. Since then, HT Aftermarket Products has sold thousands of its parts to EASA service dealers and distributors nationwide. The company has increased its product line from its complete line of maintenance-free bearing assemblies. Additional offerings include mechanical seal kits, shafts, cartridge assemblies, rebuild kits, impellers, and most recently, seal plates and motor brackets. At the Solutions Expo, HT Aftermarket Products’ staff hopes to familiarize new and existing customers with cross-referencing from OEM parts to its line of parts. But “most importantly,” the company says, the staff looks forward to “thanking our customers for making our business such an overwhelming success.”

Integrated motors, drives, and monitoring

WEG’s Synch+ motors and complementary vector inverters will be among the products on display at the company’s booth.

Motor manufacturer WEG Electric Corp. will be featuring its broad line of medium-voltage motors (TEFC and WeatherProtected II) as well as its large inventory of low- and medium-voltage automation products up to 3,000 hp. The company will also showcase its motor drives solutions, which consist of motor, drive, gearbox, and IoT monitoring. Also showcased will be WEG’s new Synch+ IE5 motors and its IE4 products. Visitors will be able to learn more about new AI predictive modules for WEG’s Motion Fleet Management monitoring system, including WEGsense technology to detect micro mechanical failures and WEGsync technology for synchronized multi-sensor measurement for structural vibration analysis. Customers and convention attendees are invited to enjoy a beer from the famous “WEG Keg” and join the company at its Tuesday night hospitality event.

In

addition to the Solutions Expo and the educational sessions, the convention will offer side trips to Red Rock Canyon, Freemont Street, the Hoover Dam, the Atomic Museum, the Las Vegas Sphere, and the downtown outlet mall and arts district

An example of Reuland’s line of brake motors.

Visitors to Wolong’s booth can expect to see the company’s GE motors along with a drive technology being introduced to North America.

A sample of HT Aftermarket’s broad assortment of replacement products.

Integrated motors, drives, and controls

Toshiba will highlight its comprehensive suite of integrated products, including motors, adjustable-speed drives, controls, and industrial automation. One notable highlight will be the introduction of a new standard offering for Class II, Division 2 hazardous locations on EQP Global SD, 840, and 841 low-voltage motors. Previously available only as a modification, this feature will now be readily accessible for stock motors, “enhancing customer convenience and accessibility,” according to the company.

The standard nameplate will continue to bear the Class I, Division 2 rating, providing comprehensive hazardous location compliance across the general-purpose product lines.

Toshiba is also announcing an expansion of its manufacturing capacity for motors in the 400 and 440 frame sizes, ranging from 50 hp to 200 hp. The purpose of this initiative is to reduce lead times, mitigate manufacturing delays, and uphold operational continuity, providing timely access to high-quality, highperformance motors. Visitors can explore the mechanical provisions integrated into the 449 frames, such as bearing RTDs, vibration monitoring, and auxiliary box provisions. The company says this design streamlines modifications and customization processes.

As part of its commitment to innovation, Toshiba will unveil its latest 15” HMI display integrated with the V200 Micro PLC, designed to facilitate enhanced user interaction and control. Attendees will have a firsthand look at the MTX2-15 medium-voltage drive, which has a robust enclosure and cooling system tailored for outdoor applications, alongside Toshiba’s rugged IEEE 841 low-voltage motor.

World-class motors, controls, and gearing

WorldWide Electric promises to be putting on a big show at the EASA Solutions Expo and bringing some of its “favorite friends.” Among these friends will be Louis Allis, a specialty electric motor manufacturer that offers “solutions to large-motor and custom-motor needs.”

Louis Allis specialty electric motors are known for meeting the more rigorous standards required for industrial applications. Also represented will be North American Electric, a brand known for offering competitively priced electric motors, controls, and gearing while operating a world-class UL508Acertified facility for motor controls production in Hernando, Miss.

WorldWide will offer a preview of its new WorldDrive N750E series of variable-frequency drives. The company will also showcase its new VFD Bypass Panel — “a game changer for building control solutions,” as WorldWide describes it. “You can always bet on seeing the quality products you’ve come to trust, working every day across the industries you serve,” the folks at WorldWide say.

Bringing

March Madness to the expo

Techtop says it’s “bringing the madness at the EASA 2024 Convention in Booth 901” and “we can’t help but turn heads with a newly designed booth with a March Madness college basketball theme.” Attendees are invited to watch Team Teachtop demonstrate how the combination of a Techtop motor and a Varvel Gearbox can produce “the perfect autoretrieval of a basketball.”

Techtop says it will be “going toe to toe with the Elite 8 of the electric motor industry, so keep an eye on the bracket board to see who walks away another year with the Championship of Quality Products and Features.” Visitors will be able to see cross-sections of stainless-steel, aluminum three-phase, and aluminum singlephase motors. “We will be tossing out some booth-themed giveaways as long as you can hit us with your best shot and make it count,” Techtop adds, “and of course, we are excited to continue our EASA-themed T-shirt giveaway.” This will be the first demonstration of Techtop’s newly released XR3 product line. “Techtop has a lot to share at this year’s showcase, and we are privileged to be sharing this at the EASA Convention.”

As Techtop returns to the EASA Solutions Expo this year, visitors can expect to see samples of the company’s motors and also score some swag.

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WorldWide Electric returns to the Solutions Expo with some familiar brands along with a preview of some new variable-frequency drives.

Just one example of Toshiba’s many motor options.

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

A new addition to a NEMA motor line

ABB plans to launch the latest addition to its ABB NEMA Motors product portfolio on June 24 during the convention. The new DP200 Crush+ is manufactured to exceed industry expectations for severe-duty motors with IP65 protection, Class H insulation, and high Design A breakdown torques. What sets this motor apart, according to ABB, is its flexibility, which allows for F1/F2/F3 conduit box changes to be done in the field.

ABB will also unveil the next evolution of a-c induction motors with Baldor-Reliance SP4 — motors that achieve NEMA Super Premium efficiency independently of a drive — as well as an improved FoodSafe SP5+, which has the same rotor design as the EC Titanium motor in an IP69 washdown, stainless-steel housing. ABB is inviting attendees to visit Booth 509 to “experience the latest innovation from the first name in industrial electric motors” and to “talk to motor experts to learn how your operation can ride the wave of innovation and sustainability.”

Essex Brownell offering an online discount

Essex Brownell comes to the convention with a simple message: “Everything we sell is in everything you do.” A special online-only discount code awaits those who visit Essex Brownell’s exhibit. Senior leadership will be on hand to discuss how “industry-leading service is a pathway to a mutually beneficial partnership” that goes beyond just products to offer custom solutions for individual needs. The Essex Brownell team will also promote a new website with enhanced functionality that allows users to order products at their convenience, 24/7. The platform ensures “a seamless and efficient purchasing experience,” according to the company, empowering customers to access the supplies they need whenever they need them.

Essex Brownell has recently opened an 85,000-squarefoot distribution center in Reno, Nev. — a strategic expansion that allows the company to serve customers across the U.S. better, ensuring faster delivery times and improved efficiency. Essex Active, the company’s internal conversion and fabrication brand, “can create tailor-made solutions that redefine what it means to be customer-centric,” according to the company. “From wedges to custom slitting, Essex Active aims to make even your toughest problem a seamless endeavor.” Essex Brownell is inviting participants to visit Booth 529 for the chance to receive exclusive discounts and explore the extensive range of products and services.

Encoders — and games of chance

Avtron Encoders will be showcasing its American-made encoders, known for their innovation, durability, and reliability. “And since it’s Vegas, baby,” the company says, “we’ll have some games of chance in our booth, so stop by Booth 947!” Foremost among items on display will be what the company considers its latest breakthrough: the HS35X magnetic encoder. This model, according to Avtron, sets “new performance standards” with advanced magnetic technology, IP66 protection, and self-diagnostic LED technology, “all in a classic 3.5” housing.” Each customer’s unique needs “deserve tailor-made solutions,” the company says. “We take pride in offering customized encoder solutions for a diverse range of industries. Our focus on robustness and reliability remains unwavering, ensuring that your operations run continuously, even in the most demanding applications.”

Avtron is also announcing the expansion of its “Made in America” footprint. “By investing in additional resources and prioritizing onshoring with American suppliers, we aim to foster growth, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy,” the company declares. “Your trust in our products fuels our dedication to delivering quality, right from the heart of America.”

VLF 0.10 Hz high-voltage testing

High Voltage, Inc., will display its high-voltage test equipment for testing motor and generator coils, windings, OEM fabricated parts, terminations, and cables. Both high-voltage a-c and d-c voltage output instruments will be shown, including VLF 0.10 Hz a-c hipots.

The company will also be introducing its “Select Your Hipot Help Desk” to the Knowledge Center section of its website. Customers are invited to find all the information they need to learn how to test rotating machinery with a-c voltage using VLF 0.10 Hz hipots, parallel resonant systems, or conventional 50/60 Hz test sets.

High Voltage, Inc., plans to display a variety of high-voltage test instruments for coils, windings, and other electric motor components.

Representatives from the company will be available to explain the IEEE 433-2022 standard and a-c testing of rotating machinery. Revised from the 1974 original, this standard defines using VLF 0.10 Hz a-c technology for overvoltage a-c withstand, tan delta, and partial discharge testing. Visitors will learn the standard, the tests defined, the equipment needed, and the methods used.

ABB’s new DP200 Crush+ motor.

Essex Brownell’s new distribution center in Reno, Nev.

Avtron Encoders staff work the company’s booth at a previous trade show.

Laser-cut laminations for cores and poles

Laser Technologies, a source for turnkey reverse engineering and restacking of stator cores, rotor cores, armature cores, and d-c poles, plans to showcase its various services. Laser Technologies offers laser-cut laminations and full core assembly for stator and rotor cores, pole assemblies, and vent/finger plate assemblies. The company has fully processed electrical steel in stock and can refurbish customersupplied laminations with C5 coating. Its 168,000-squarefoot facility has 20 laser-cutting machines and 10-ton crane capacity. For more than 35 years, Laser Technologies has added value through in-house services and state-of-the-art equipment that make possible fast turnaround to the customer’s exact specifications, according to the company.

HVAC/R components and parts

DiversiTech Corp. is a manufacturer of equipment pads and a manufacturer and supplier of components and related products for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry. In 2021, DiversiTech purchased Packard to round out its products in electrical and replacement parts. Diversitech’s offerings of HVAC/R electrical parts include: motors, capacitors, contactors, transformers, pulleys, belts, draft inducers, fan blades, blower wheels, and more — all of which “can be the perfect addition to your store,” the company says. Diversitech offers free shipping on any order over $1,000 and prides itself on quick turn times for orders.

This year’s convention is expected to host 163 exhibitors, 20 of them firsttimers, along with a total of 31

educational sessions and four networking events

‘Significant investments’ in insulation

ELANTAS PDG, Inc., and Von Roll USA, Inc., tell us they’re excited to exhibit together at the EASA Solutions Expo for the first time this year, following the recent acquisition of Von Roll by ELANTAS, announced in August of last year. The integration of Von Roll into ELANTAS “unlocks vast opportunities,” according to a joint statement, an occasion marked by “significant investments signaling our commitment to growth and excellence in the field of protection and electrical insulation.” They will be presenting their “combined and comprehensive product portfolio,” which includes resins and tapes for both low- and highvoltage applications.

Laminations and rotor services

Advanced Rotors plans to showcase its laminations and rotor services. The company has three 4,000 kW fiberoptic laser cutting machines along with dual-head five-axis waterjet cutting services. Its 24,000-square-foot laser facility has a coil line for more efficiency and less material waste. Advanced Rotors’ laminations are M19 grade electric steel, double-coated with C5 core plate insulation.

Advanced Rotors’ specialty is repairing the internal components of electric motors, which consists of repairing and manufacturing rotors, stators, armatures, wound rotors, pole pieces, shafts, and bar kits. The company does all this in a 20,000-square-foot facility with 70 tons of crane capacity and 54-inch-swing lathe capacity. Advanced Rotors’ laser team offers on-site stacking at the customer’s facility. The company recently added 10,000 square feet of stacking department space, a 20-ton crane, and a 40-ton crane. New offices are being added this year.

At the end of 2023, Jason Phillips joined Advanced Rotors as general manager. He has worked in machine shops since 1999 and in field service management since 2008. He brings to the company plans for additions and improvements to the company’s operations.

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Jason Phillips, the new general manager at Advanced Rotors.

Impregnating resins from ELANTAS PDG.

A Diversitech Titan Pro motor run capacitor.

Before (left) and after views of a motor core with laser-cut laminations provided by Laser Technologies.

Feature | 2024 EASA Convention Exhibitors

Commutators and slip rings

Akard Commutator of Tennessee plans to display sample commutators and slip rings as well as mini-model educational assemblies such as tiny split rings and splithub slip rings. Company representatives will be available to explain the phrase “When you know the difference!” as seen in the company’s marketing messages.

Featured at the company’s booth — #645 — will be high-performance V-ring-type commutators accompanied by “ACTual G-Force Certification” of centrifugal testing results. These results list specific Gs at a minimum of 300 degrees F, “proving stability well above normal operation parameters based on nameplate maximum speed ratings,” according to Akard.

Guests at Akard’s booth will be invited to enjoy a helping of ACT’s 30th anniversary of EASA membership “proof pudding” and “spin ACT’s wheel” for prizes, including personalized ACTion Waterjet-produced copper nameplates and other ACT swag.

Simulated demos of motor testing

Phenix Technologies will once again showcase its newly designed tradeshow booth that debuted last year at National Harbor, Md., featuring an expanded layout of various products and services used for motor testing. The company plans to offer simulated demonstrations of motor testing products as well as core loss testing software. Phenix sales representatives will be available to address motor testing application and servicerelated questions.

Phenix will be unveiling a new motor test set platform that incorporates the benefits of accurate data logging with streamlined controls.

The company recently added new sales as well as operations site leadership with a combined 50 years of experience in the electrical industry.

Phenix recently designed and built a custom-designed motor test set for a customer with what the company described as “very particular needs”. A specialized test panel was designed to perform four specific tests, including standard no-load testing, custom three-phase locked rotor, singlephase cogging, and single-phase locked rotor testing.

VPI equipment made to custom needs

Godfrey & Wing/Imprex has more than 50 years of experience designing, manufacturing, and servicing VPI equipment ranging from 12” to 15’ in diameter. With hundreds of VPI systems installed around the world, Godfrey & Wing continues to help global manufacturers such as Nidec, Komatsu, and others. EASA convention attendees are invited to visit Godfrey & Wing to learn about the company’s partnership with Essex, along with its recent expansion with the purchase of Henkel’s Loctite Impregnation Services locations in Muncie, Ind., and Irapuato, Mexico.

Motors, generators, drives, and controls

Teco-Westinghouse Motor Co. plans to showcase its line of induction, synchronous and d-c machines available from 1/4 hp to 100,000 hp (0.2 to 74, 571 kW). The company’s products are used to drive pumps, fans, compressors, rolling mills, grinders, crushers, and a variety of other rugged applications in the petroleum, chemical, pulp-and-paper, mining, marine propulsion, steel, electric utility and other industries throughout the world.

In addition to motors, Teco-Westinghouse supplies lowvoltage motor controls such as inverters, starters, and contactors. Aso offered are medium-voltage variable-frequency drives that can include input/output switchgear, synchronous transfers, and MCCs with E-houses. The company has a service-and-repair team that provides engineering and testing services, genuine renewal parts for Westinghouse and TECO-Westinghouse machines, and large motor repairs.

Protection against shaft voltage discharge

VFD-induced shaft voltages discharge through motor bearings and can destroy them in as little as three months, Electro Static Technology, manufacturer of the AEGIS grounding ring, reminds us. Motor repair shops are often blamed if this problem recurs after a motor repair. Motor manufacturers also suffer blame since motor users often don’t understand the connection between VFDs and bearing damage. They erroneously believe it to be the result of mechanical wear rather than electrical discharge. Electro Static’s AEGIS rings are designed to protect bearings, and ultimately motors, from these discharges. At the EASA Solutions Expo, company representatives will be available to show exactly how this damage occurs and “how our products make you the reliable choice for your customers by protecting motors for the L10 life of their bearings.” EA

AEGIS grounding rings from Electro Static Technology.

VPI tanks from Godfrey & Wing/Imprex.

The Akard Commutator crew is looking forward to meeting EASA friends both old and new.

One of Phenix’s motor test systems.

Pumped up across the pond

An annual awards ceremony recognized the best and most innovative in the British pump industry

By Kevin Jones, EA Senior Editor

Suppliers to the British pump industry came out dressed to the nines and ready to party March 14 when the British Pump Manufacturers Association gathered for its annual awards gala. The event — held at the Hilton at St. George’s Park in Burton upon Trent — saw a record number of submissions across eight categories. Manufacturers, distributors, service providers, a software producer, and an up-andcoming star all had their moment in the spotlight.

The gala was opened by Dale Croker of KSB and president of the BPMA, who welcomed the 2024 finalists and acknowledged their “professional endeavor, product innovation, skills development, engineering prowess, and overall service delivery,” the association reported. Croker used his opening remarks to review the work carried out by the BPMA, emphasizing the role the association plays in ensuring that the sector’s regulatory framework fully supports the delivery of “enhanced operational efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and environmentally sustainable solutions for pump operations the world over.”

Serving as co-host this year was Martin Bayfield, a popular English rugby star, now retired from the game, who’s also known as a journalist and actor. (Among other screen acting gigs, he appeared as a young Rubeus Hagrid in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.”) Bayfield helped conduct the main awards ceremony and, afterward, provided post-dinner entertainment.

Manufacturers get the nod

This year’s Product of the Year Award went to Assoma, Inc., of Taoyuan, Taiwan, for its AVF-C pump, said to be the first thermoplastic canned motor pump to exceed Europe’s highest energy efficiency standard.

The stator of the IE5 permanent-magnet motor, according to the award citation, “directly drives the inner magnet of the high-efficiency pump for leakfree operation, reduced floor space, noise, and running costs.” The pump is typically used for liquid circulation in manufacturing processes that require varying duties, minimum energy usage, or both.

An award category that’s broader than Product of the Year is Manufacturer of the year, recognition for

which went this year to SPP Pumps of Reading, Berkshire, a designer and manufacturer of “high-quality engineered products and services.” The company has demonstrated that its “experience, expertise, and ethos of sustainability create value for all stakeholders,” the award citation stated. With more than 70% of its products exported worldwide, “SPP Pumps are proudly flying the flag for British engineering and manufacturing whilst continuously looking for ways to operate more sustainably and to reduce their impact on the environment,” the citation said.

Pumping projects recognized

The Project of the Year Award, meanwhile, went jointly this year to pump supplier KSB and Cornish Metals, which together worked to remove water from a tin mine in a historic mining district in the towns of Pool and Camborne, in southwestern England.

The South Crofty Tin Mine ceased operations in 1998, when the price of tin was depressed and the workings of the mine were allowed to flood. In subsequent years, as the price of tin recovered and operation of the mine became financially feasible again, some eight million cubic meters of water needed to be pumped out of the mine so mining from the greatest depths could be resumed. “Using innovative techniques and KSB BSX pumps, Cornish Metals have developed an energy efficient method of dewatering the mine,” the award citation said.

People representing all sectors of the British pump industry mingled informally during what many consider to be the industry’s social event of the year. — Touchwave Media photo

In June of 2023, Cornish Metals and KSB installed the first of two submersible pumps to a depth of 360 meters in one of the shafts at the South Crofty mine. Installation required the connection and lowering of the pump on 120 three-meter-long steel pipes, which were suspended in the shaft for the first phase of dewatering.

Another award that recognized a particular project was the Environmental Contribution of the Year Award. Bedford Pumps of Kempston, Bedfordshire, took home this year’s prize for its role in a floodmitigation project in Indonesia. For this job, the company installed eight 160 mm submersible axialflow, fish-friendly pumps as part of flood protection for the Indonesian capital of Jakarta, a metropolis of more than 10 million people. The award citation said that the project “fulfills the very highest levels of sustainability for both land and life” and that the pumps “demonstrate efficiencies far in excess of market benchmarks, resulting in the lowest total cost of ownership.”

Distributors and other suppliers

Top recognition among pump distributors went this year to Anglo Pumps of Kempston, Bedfordshire, a company that — in addition to selling new pumps — assesses site viability, helps clients choose pumps, and installs equipment. The company represents a number of pump suppliers and manufacturers.

Anglo Pumps performs project management, station design, equipment selection, and programming, including any civil engineering that may be needed. The company offers a wide range of maintenance services to ensure the reliability and efficiency of pumping systems and associated equipment.

Not all suppliers to the pump industry are pump manufacturers or distributors, and this is where suppliers of peripherals come in. This year’s Supplier of the Year Award went to EMiR Software, a company that produces EMiR - Electro-Mechanical Information Resource software, a business solution written expressly for pump and engineering businesses.

“EMiR has been driving the technical advancement of the software to streamline business process and ensures the increased efficiency of engineering resource,” according to BPMA. “EMiR empowers pump engineers to manage and resource all aspects of their complex and unique business needs.”

Representatives from EMiR reported having a good time at the awards banquet. “We had a fantastic evening at St. George’s Park, which was attended by nearly 300 BPMA members and hosted brilliantly by Martin Bayfield, one of the most recognizable faces in English rugby,” EMiR Software reported. “The whole evening was a real celebration of the best in the industry, and we are very grateful to all who voted for us to win!”

Recognizing the need to nurture talent

The need for qualified personnel is felt as keenly in the British pump industry as it is anywhere else, and the BPMA recognizes this need by presenting an award each year to an education or training provider that best exemplifies the industry’s attempts to nurture the next generation of pump professionals.

This year’s award for Contributions to Skills & Training went to the John Crane Discover Graduate Engineers Program, which offers a 24to 30-month comprehensive program comprising three development phases. As explained by BPMA, each phase integrates technical and leadership skills training with exposure to practical field engineering. Participants may undertake short-term assignments in design, application, manufacturing, research and development, and other areas. “The program emphasizes technical training and field experience to equip engineers with the expertise to tackle diverse engineering challenges,” the award citation noted. “Completion opens doors to career advancement opportunities contingent on performance, experience, and business needs.”

John Crane says it’s looking for “ambitious and adaptable graduating students” with bachelor of science degrees in engineering focused on mechanical, manufacturing, chemical, or equivalent fields. Participants must be “highly mobile” and willing to work beyond their present location, including internationally.

Finally, the association celebrated the development of young talent with its Rising Star Award, which was given this year to Ben Warren of SPP Pumps. The award citation praised him for his skill at training apprentices and producing his work efficiently.

“Ben started at SPP Pumps as a machining apprentice and has been instrumental in implementing SPP’s Machining Future Cell,” his award citation read. “Ben is successfully delivering a first-class training programme to SPP apprentices whilst also completing productive work through the cell, delivering a payback on investment in half the forecast time.”

With a future as bright as that embodied by the likes of Ben Warren, the British pump industry can surely look forward to many more annual galas with good things to celebrate. EA

The 2024 award for Project of the Year went to pump supplier KSB and Cornish Metals for a project the two firms worked on to reactivate the South Crofty tin mine in Cornwall, England. In this photo, a submersible pump is lowered into the New Cooks Kitchen shaft.

— Cornish Metals photo

Classified

RATES AND INFORMATION

$14 per 8 pt. line (1 column width); minimum charge: $70. Logos, box numbers and limited formatting may be added for additional charges. Classified display ads also available. For more information, closing dates and requirements, contact Barbara Wachter, Advertising Director E-mail: barbara@barks.com Phone: (312) 626-2316

Help Wanted

MULTIPLE JOB OPENINGS

Romanoff Industries is looking for qualified candidates to work with us in Toledo, Ohio in the following roles:

• Shop Manager

• Electric Motor Mechanic

• Shop Help and Motor Prep

• Vehicle and Property Maintenance Technician

Romanoff Industries has been in business for 43 years and is continuing to thrive and grow with our national customer base. Reasonable cost of living in Toledo, competitive pay, and room for growth within the company make working here a great opportunity. Relocation assistance may be provided for the right candidates.

Please contact Dan Cavese at 419-691-2888 or dcavese@romanoffindustries.com for further info or to submit a résumé.

Equipment for Sale

FOR SALE

CAM Peerless Industries 10k lb. cap. banding lathe, 8’ working length, wire & fiberglass tensioning device.

For more info email: acmotor61@gmail.com

Business for Sale

EASTERN ONTARIO SMALL SHOP

Owner considering retirement. Well established, well equipped shop with environmental permit in place. Good mix of industrial sales, repairs, and outside service, with long serving experienced technicians. Building and property are owned by the corporation, will consider sale of real-estate if buyer interested.

Owner willing to stay on for a negotiated transition period. Sale to properly qualified and financed individuals/corporations only. Contact: avinvestmentsandholdings@gmail. com

Business for Sale

ELECTRIC MOTOR SHOP FOR SALE

Mid-Michigan location. Est. 1963. Partial consignment available. Please only experienced inquiries. Email at stuselectric@ gmail.com or call 989-773-5575

Equipment for Sale

ELECTRIC MOTOR SHOP EQUIPMENT: ALL IN GOOD RUNNING CONDITION!!

Pollution Control Burn Out Oven Vp127-1341

Nat’l Gas 300.000 btu with After Burner

Steelman Bake Out Oven M#333eif 92209

Stator Cutting Machine & Puller, Air and Hydraulic Driven w/ 3ph Motor for Cutter, with Chain Hoist

Ace Winding Machine Mod#1 5-84 S#1788

Varnish Tank with BL-359 Varnish size 40” x 40” x 40” deep Dolph T-100 thinner B & M Ent. Ball Bearing Press Puller, Mod#10AO

Ball Bearing Heater Reco M#SC-2 (Reed Electric Sales & Supply, Portland Oregon) We have pictures of all equipment listed Make an offer for everything or just individual, must be out by June 2024

Lakewood Electric Motor, Howell, NJ Ph 732-363-2865 C#609-709-0382

Business Opportunity

LOOKING TO RETIRE

Well established (66 years) Long Island, NY motor shop and industrial electrical contractor looking for a new owner, or interested in hiring an employee to come and learn our successful practice to possibly purchase the business. Owners looking to retire.

Heavy mechanical background, drives, and PLC knowledge a plus.

Plenty of room for expansion.

All replies are confidential. Reply to Box 30, barbara@barks.com

Help Wanted

Electric Motor Shop in Wake Forest, NC, is looking for candidates for:

•Field Service Techs

•Manual Machinists

•Motor Mechanics

•Outside Sales Reps

•Field Service Manager

•Pump Mechanics

•Switchgear Specialist

•Winders

Electric Motor Shop o ers competitive pay and benefits, including 401k. For employment consideration, please contact Kristine Larsen at 919-556-3229 or by email at Kristine.Larsen@emsnc.com

Plant Happenings

Help Wanted

ELECTRIC MOTOR WINDER

One of the Northeast’s largest independently owned electro-mechanical repair, sales, and field service facilities is looking to hire an electric motor winder. The qualified electric motor winder applicant should have a minimum of 3-5 years experience in rewinding DC and AC electric motors. This individual needs to be self motivated and willing to work independently, as well as a team. We o er competitive wages, health, dental, vision insurances, paid holidays, sick time, earned time o , paid life insurance, short term disability insurance, and a 401K with company match. Relocation assistance is available. Please send résumés to dave@ applied-dynamics.com

Sunny days for Alabama solar industry

OMCO Solar of Phoenix, a manufacturer of steel structures for solar panels, announced plans in April to invest more than $10 million in a manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Ala., for the production of solar racking. The facility — which OMCO is leasing — will be the company’s second production location in Alabama. The Huntsville facility houses multiple high-speed manufacturing systems designed to produce the Series 7 PV module back rail for First Solar, described by the Alabama Dept. of Commerce as “the number-one U.S.-based solar module manufacturer.”

Roofing supplier to build a plant in Kansas

GAF of Parsippany, N.J., a roo ng and water-proo ng manufacturer, announced in late March its intention to build a new shingle plant in Newton, Kan., that will allow the company to add residential roo ng manufacturing capacity to its network close to end markets. The new facility will produce products that the company says are in particularly high demand, including GAF Timberline HDZ and GAF Timberline ArmorShield II shingles. Construction is expected to begin this month, with production set to begin in 2027. The company expects to reach full production capacity by mid-2029.

Help Wanted

ELECTRIC MOTOR MECHANICSUPERVISOR

5+ years experience with industrial AC/DC electric motors, pumps and gear boxes. Previous supervisory experience required.

We o er competitive pay based on experience, benefits, and a great working environment.

Send résumé to: rmemnc@gmail.com

Rocky Mount Electric Motor, LLC

EASA Accredited Repair Shop

3870 S. Church St. Rocky Mount, NC 27803 www.RMEMnc.com

Forget boilers; we’ve got semiconductors

Citing the State of Indiana’s “resilient manufacturing infrastructure,” the Korean semiconductor manufacturer SK hynix, Inc., announced in April that it plans to establish a new advanced packaging fabrication and R&D facility for high-intensity and AI microelectronic products in West Lafayette, Ind., home of Purdue University and its Boilermakers. SK hynix will initially invest more than $3.87 billion to establish a 430,000-square-foot facility on 90 acres at the Purdue Research Park to support U.S. demand for semiconductors.

Pipe maker plans Louisiana investment

Global Seamless Tubes & Pipes of Kolkata, West Bengal, India, a manufacturer and exporter of carbon, alloy, and stainless-steel cold-drawn and hot- nish seamless tubes and pipes, announced in April that it will invest $35 million to establish its rst U.S. production facility in northwest Louisiana, in a facility formerly occupied by Hensley Industries. The company ships its products to customers in more than 10 countries. Its Louisiana facility, in DeSoto Parish, will have machinery to integrate both hot nishing and cold-drawn manufacturing in the same unit. The operation is expected to help develop a domestic supply chain for North American customers in engineering, oil and gas, and power generation. Engineering and design of the former Hensley facility is underway; operations are to begin by the end of this year. — Kevin Jones

Help Wanted

EASA

SEEKS MOTOR ENGINEER

Join EASA’s world-renowned technical support team! EASA seeks an engineer with at least 5 years of experience in repair, service, maintenance and/or redesign of ac and dc motors. Must understand motor theory as well as application and be able to communicate e ectively in a fast-paced consulting role. Some travel required. For more info, see easa.com/careers.

Competitive salary; excellent benefits; team environment. Remote work option for the right candidate.

This is an exciting role with variety that impacts the entire indsutry. Send cover note and resumé to Linda Raynes; lraynes@easa.com.

Help Wanted

MIDWEST SERVICE CENTER —HOBART, IN

Our Electrical division is seeking qualified candidates for the following positions:

•Motor Mechanic

•Machinist

•Electrical Motor Winder

We o er:

Competitive Wages, Comprehensive Benefits Package, Relocation Assistance, as well as 10 Paid Holidays per year.

Send resume to: hrdepartment@msc-hobart.com

Learn more at:

https://www.midwestservicecenter.com/ about/working-at-msc/

Help Wanted

EXPERIENCED SHOP FOREMAN

North End Electric in Wilkes Barre Pa, Shop of 15 employees overseeing all repair, field diagnosis, re-wind and machine work progress. Must be experienced with AC/ DC electric motors, gearboxes and other various rotating equipment. Contact cody. hendricks@northendelectric.com to inquire.

The EA word search

Food for thought

In the grid at left, nd and circle the words listed below, which are taken from this month’s “EA reader pro le” about Krista DeSocio. The uncircled letters, arranged in order, will spell out something that Krista is passionate about creating. The solution may be found online at http://barks.com/puzzles, or call (312)321-9440. Happy hunting!

Help Wanted

MOTOR & GENERATOR MECHANICS

The City of Los Angeles is looking for applicants to specialize in motor rewinding, high-voltage generator and transformer repairs and other utility related duties.

This is an entry-level 4-year training position, but experienced applicants are also encouraged to apply.

Current Salary range is $43.25 - $61.78/hr. Excellent Benefits. Health, Dental, Vision, PTO, Pension and promotional opportunities.

Scan QR code for more information and click subscribe to be notified when application period opens.

Help Wanted

MOTOR SHOP LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK

Beaches, Fishing, Boating, Summers in the Sun.

Shop Mechanic Experienced Rebuilding Water Pumps, Electric Motors, minor Air Compressors. General Mechanical Tasks Replacing Bearings, Seals, and Gaskets. No Rewinding.

High Pay, Benefits 401K, Health Insurance. Email résumé to JohnG@KGPowerSystems.com or mail to KG Power Systems 150 Laser Court Hauppauge, NY 11788

Help Wanted

MOTOR REWINDER PORTLAND OREGON

Must have experience with single and three phase.

We o er competitive wages and benefit package.

Send résumé to: steve@conrey.net or call 503-232-9392

ELECTRIC MOTOR TECHNICIAN SUPERVISOR - 2ND SHIFT

10+ years exp w. industrial AC/DC electric motors, generators & electro-mechanical equipment repair. Must have previous supervisory exp. Pay based on exp. + 12% shift di erential + supervisor pay. Excellent benefit package: 401k, medical, dental, vision, vacation, sick pay, paid holidays.

EEO

Apply at bit.ly/mti_jobs Motor Technology, Inc.

515 Willow Springs Lane York, PA 17404

DIGITAL COPIES!

Bookmark these links to access digital flipbooks

JUNE (this issue)

bit.ly/JUN24SALE

JULY

bit.ly/july24zoom AUGUST

bit.ly/aug24indl

COMPETITIVE PAY, BENEFITS & OT!!

Prime Electric in Gorham, ME is looking for an experienced Electric Motor Technician. Relocation compensation, training program & advancement opportunities. Safe, friendly environment. Call 207-591-7800 or email résumés to dan@PrimeElectricMotor.com. Visit us at PrimeElectricMotor.com.

Platinum Performance discusses the lifespan of a mechanical seal

High-quality seals, like those provided by Platinum Performance Products, are designed with durability in mind and can often outlast cheaper alternatives. Our seals are made with premium elastomers, which enhance their durability and longevity, requiring fewer replacements over the pump’s life. If you have any questions about choosing the right seal for your application, our team Platinum Performance Products is always here to help. Visit www.3ppumps.com to learn more.

SHOP FOREMAN

Westside Electric Inc

Located in Jacksonville Florida

Experience in all areas of electric motors, AC & DC, generators, pumps. These repairs are found in a typical EASA repair facility. Must have good management and coordinating skills to advise and assist technicians in completing the jobs in a timely and accurate manner that will satisfy the customer and be profitable. The Foreman is responsible for scheduling shop work and field service and insuring that the customer’s needs are met. Safety procedures, customer relations and the knowledge of test equipment are required. Send résumé to bruce@westsideelectric.com or call (904)757-1126.

Classified Display

Help Wanted

ELECTRIC MOTOR WINDER

Savannah Apparatus Repair in the “Hostess City of the South” Savannah, GA for over 45 years is searching for an experienced motor winder. Rewind various 3 phase AC/ DC, random wound, form coil, stators, rotors, and armatures. Electrical experience and Baker testing up to 4160V required. Start to finish- strip and recording data to brazing and soldering connections etc. Competitive wages and benefits (medical, dental, vision, vacation). Relocation assistance provided for the right candidate. Send résumé to ChrisB@savannahapparatus.com or call (912)925-8700

Classified Display

Help Wanted

ELECTRIC MOTOR WINDER

Best Repair Company in Norfolk VA is looking for qualified candidates for:

•Quality Manager

•Motor Winders

•Pump Mechanics

•Manual Machinist

•Shop Helpers

BRC o ers a competitive salary, health insurance & 401K plan. Visit our Web Site at www.Bestrepair.net or contact gary.phelps@bestrepair.net if interested.

Classified Display

Makes

ADVERTISING INDEX

Advanced Rotors, Inc. 20

AEGIS / Electro Static Technology .

AKARD COMMUTATOR

. 9

OF TENNESSEE 15, 31

Alabama Laser 14

BAE Wire & Insulation, Inc. 75

Bartlett Bearing Company, Inc. . . 17

Dreisilker Electric Motors, Inc. . .61 EIS 35 Elantas 34 Electric Materials Company 36 Electrical Apparatus & Machine 59 Electrom Instruments, Inc. . . . 33

ESR Motor Systems LLC 7 Essex Brownell 8

HD Hyundai Electric America Corp.

Direct & Current

POWERING DOWN.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on April 25 announced a suite of final rules to reduce pollution from fossil fuelfired power plants “in order to protect all communities from pollution and improve public health without disrupting the delivery of reliable electricity.” These rules, finalized under separate authorities including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, purport to “significantly reduce climate, air, water, and land pollution from the power sector, delivering on the current administration’s commitment to protect public health, advance environmental justice, and confront the climate crisis,” per a lengthy statement from the EPA.

MEAN PLASTICS.

5

Helwig Carbon Products, Inc. . . 28 High Voltage, Inc. 37 Hoto Instruments 75 HT Aftermarket Products 21

13 Jasper Electric Motors, Inc. .

23

Lafert North America IFC Martindale Electric Co 21 MDS, Inc. 12 Mitchell Electronics, Inc. .

22

Mod-Tronic Instruments Limited 32 OTS Wire & Insulation 75

Overly Hautz 63 Phenix Technologies 30 Pittsburgh Electrical Insulation . 27 PJ Electronics

65 Platinum Peformance Products 74

Reuland Electric Motor Company 10 S&W Wire Company 16 Spring Point Solutions

Motors

25

6

Teco-Westinghouse Motor Co. 19

Torq Corp. 24

Toshiba International Corporation

. 3

Vaughen’s Price Publishing, Inc. 74

Von Roll USA, Inc. 29, 34

WEG Electric Corp. BC

Wolong Electric America LLC . . . 11

WorldWide Electric Corporation IBC

Learn more about the products and services featured in this issue! Use the QR code or go to https://shout.com/s/lsVShyUE to request information from advertisers.

WEAR YOUR AVIATORS.

The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC4), concluded April 29 in Ottawa with an advanced draft text of the instrument and an agreement on intersessional work ahead of the fifth session (INC-5) in November. More than 2,500 delegates participated in INC-4, representing 170 Members and more than 480 Observer organizations, including non-governmental organizations, intergovernmental organizations, and United Nations entities.

The U.S. Dept. of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service have released guidance on the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Credit established by the Inflation Reduction Act, part of the administration’s Investing in America agenda to create good-paying jobs and reduce climate pollution by spurring innovation in the aviation industry.

STAND DOWN.

The American Society of Safety Professionals issued a statement April 25 encouraging safety professionals and employers to raise awareness and participate in the 11th Annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction on May 6-10. The observance is part of a year-round campaign led by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

BOILER PLATE. In an effort to accelerate physical, digital, and sustainable manufacturing efforts across Indiana, Purdue University’s Manufacturing and Materials Research Laboratories (MMRL) will establish a presence in Indianapolis at 16 Tech Innovation District, the city’s destination for innovation and entrepreneurship, deep inside the heart of the Hard-Tech Corridor. MMRL will locate in 16 Tech’s Machyne makerspace, the region’s leading makerspace for prototyping. This latest announcement comes just before the official launch of Purdue University in Indianapolis, Purdue’s new urban campus. — Charlie Barks

Have the digital “Direct & Current” delivered each week, at no charge, to your e-mail in-box. Scan the code at right or sign up now at http://eepurl.com/dEkrB9.

A conference in Ottawa laid the groundwork for limiting plastic waste in the future. — INC photo

-Variable Frequency Drives -Soft Starters

-Across the Line Starters

- Pre-configured/Customizable Cabinets and Panels

- Remote Operation, Pilot Devices, Safety Switches, Contactors & Relays

Shaft

- Worm Gear Reducers

Bevel Gear

- Helical Inline Gear Reducers -Parallel Shaft Helical Gear Reducers

- Accessories and Kits