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Rain & Lightning

April 16, 2024
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After the rain. Personal photograph taken by Mike Anthony biking with his niece in Wirdum, The Netherlands

Today at 15:00 UTC we examine the technical literature about rainwater management in schools, colleges and universities — underfoot and on the roof.  Lightning protection standards will also be reviewed; given the exposure of outdoor athletic activity and exterior luminaires.

We draw from previous standardization work in titles involving water, roofing systems and flood management — i.e. a cross-cutting view of the relevant standard developer catalogs.   Among them:

American Society of Civil Engineers

American Society of Plumbing Engineers

ASHRAE International

ASTM International

Construction Specifications Institute (Division 7 Thermal and Moisture Protection)

Federal Emergency Management Agency

FM Global

IAPMO Group (Mechanical and Plumbing codes)

Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers

Heat Tracing Standards

International Code Council

Chapter 15 Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures

Why, When, What and Where Lightning Protection is Required

National Fire Protection Association

National Electrical Code: Article 250.16 Lightning Protection Systems

Lightning Protection

Underwriters Laboratories: Lightning Protection

United States Department of Agriculture: Storm Rainfall Depth and Distribution

Risk Assessment of Rooftop-Mounted Solar PV Systems

Readings: The “30-30” Rule for Outdoor Athletic Events Lightning Hazard

As always, our daily colloquia are open to everyone.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

“Rainbow Connection”

The “lightning effect” seen in carnival tricks typically relies on a scientific principle known as the Lichtenberg figure or Lichtenberg figure. This phenomenon occurs when a high-voltage electrical discharge passes through an insulating material, such as wood or acrylic, leaving behind branching patterns resembling lightning bolts.

The process involves the creation of a temporary electric field within the material, which polarizes its molecules. As the discharge propagates through the material, it causes localized breakdowns, creating branching paths along the way. These branching patterns are the characteristic Lichtenberg figures.

In the carnival trick, a high-voltage generator is used to create an electrical discharge on a piece of insulating material, such as acrylic. When a person touches the material or a conductive object placed on it, the discharge follows the path of least resistance, leaving behind the branching patterns. This effect is often used for entertainment purposes due to its visually striking appearance, resembling miniature lightning bolts frozen in the material. However, it’s crucial to handle such demonstrations with caution due to the potential hazards associated with high-voltage electricity.

Electrical Switch Station #8

April 16, 2024
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This project restores the Old Art Gallery building for a new electrical switching station. The 1904 building was originally the campus powerhouse, supplying electricity and steam to the young Berkeley campus. As the campus grew, power demands exceeded its capacity and, in 1930, a new central plant opened in the southwest part of campus. In 1934, the former powerhouse building reopened as a gallery to display art and served this purpose until a new University Art Museum opened on Bancroft Way in 1970. The building was subsequently used for storage for more than 50 years.

In restoring and structurally improving the Old Art Gallery building to house the new Switch Station #8, the small brick building that began its storied life as a powerhouse more than 100 years ago will become a key component in UC Berkeley’s 100% clean energy future.

IEEE TV: Overview of UC Berkely Resistance Grounded Campus Power System

Campus Bulk Electrical Distribution

High Voltage Electric Service

 

Lightning Protection Systems

April 16, 2024
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“Benjamin Franklin Drawing Electricity from the Sky” 1816 Benjamin West

 

Benjamin Franklin conducted his famous experiment with lightning on June 10, 1752.

He used a kite and a key to demonstrate that lightning was a form of electricity.

This experiment marked an important milestone in understanding the nature of electricity

and laid the foundation for the development of lightning rods and other lightning protection systems.

 

Seasonal extreme weather patterns in the United States, resulting in damages to education facilities and delays in outdoor athletic events — track meets; lacrosse games, swimming pool closures and the like — inspire a revisit of the relevant standards for the systems that contribute to safety from injury and physical damage to buildings: NFPA 780 Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems

FREE ACCESS

To paraphrase the NFPA 780 prospectus:

  • This document shall cover traditional lightning protection system installation requirements for the following:
       (1) Ordinary structures

       (2) Miscellaneous structures and special occupancies
       (3) Heavy-duty stacks
       (4) Structures containing flammable vapors, flammable gases, or liquids with flammable vapors
       (5) Structures housing explosive materials
       (6) Wind turbines
       (7) Watercraft
       (8) Airfield lighting circuits
       (9) Solar arrays
  • This document shall address lightning protection of the structure but not the equipment or installation requirements for electric generating, transmission, and distribution systems except as given in Chapter 9 and Chapter 12.

(Electric generating facilities whose primary purpose is to generate electric power are excluded from this standard with regard to generation, transmission, and distribution of power.  Most electrical utilities have standards covering the protection of their facilities and equipment. Installations not directly related to those areas and structures housing such installations can be protected against lightning by the provisions of this standard.)

  • This document shall not cover lightning protection system installation requirements for early streamer emission systems or charge dissipation systems.

“Down conductors” must be at least #2 AWG copper (0 AWG aluminum) for Class I materials in structures less than 75-ft in height

“Down conductors: must be at least 00 AWG copper (0000 AWG aluminum) for Class II Materials in structures greater than 75-ft in height.

Related grounding and bonding  requirements appears in Chapters 2 and Chapter 3 of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code.  This standard does not establish evacuation criteria.  

The current edition is dated 2023 and, from the transcripts, you can observe concern about solar power and early emission streamer technologies tracking through the committee decision making.  Education communities have significant activity in wide-open spaces; hence our attention to technical specifics.

2023 Public Input Report

2023 Public Comment Report

Public input on the 2026 revision is receivable until 1 June 2023.

We always encourage our colleagues to key in their own ideas into the NFPA public input facility (CLICK HERE).   We maintain NFPA 780 on our Power colloquia which collaborates with IEEE four times monthly in European and American time zones.  See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting; open to everyone.

Lightning flash density – 12 hourly averages over the year (NASA OTD/LIS) This shows that lightning is much more frequent in summer than in winter, and from noon to midnight compared to midnight to noon.

Issue: [14-105]

Category: Electrical, Telecommunication, Public Safety, Risk Management

Colleagues: Mike Anthony, Jim Harvey, Kane Howard


More

Installing lightning protection system for your facility in 3 Steps (Surge Protection)

IEEE Education & Healthcare Facility Electrotechnology

Readings: The “30-30” Rule for Outdoor Athletic Events Lightning Hazard

Churches and chapels are more susceptible to lightning damage due to their height and design. Consider:

Height: Taller structures are more likely to be struck by lightning because they are closer to the cloud base where lightning originates.

Location: If a church or chapel is situated in an area with frequent thunderstorms, it will have a higher likelihood of being struck by lightning.

Construction Materials: The materials used in the construction of the building can affect its vulnerability. Metal structures, for instance, can conduct lightning strikes more readily than non-metallic materials.

Proximity to Other Structures: If the church or chapel is located near other taller structures like trees, utility poles, or buildings, it could increase the chances of lightning seeking a path through these objects before reaching the building.

Lightning Protection Systems: Installing lightning rods and other lightning protection systems can help to divert lightning strikes away from the structure, reducing the risk of damage.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance of lightning protection systems is essential to ensure their effectiveness. Neglecting maintenance could result in increased susceptibility to lightning damage.

Historical Significance: Older buildings might lack modern lightning protection systems, making them more vulnerable to lightning strikes.

The risk can be mitigated by proper design, installation of lightning protection systems, and regular maintenance. 

Quadrivium: Spring

April 16, 2024
mike@standardsmichigan.com

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United States Patent and Trademark Office: News and Updates

Divine Child Catholic High School | Dearborn Michigan

American National Standards Institute: Standards Action

International Electrotechnical Commission

International Organization for Standardization

International Telecommunication Union

More LIVE Campus Cameras

2026 National Electrical Code Workspace

Spring Week 16 | April 15- April 21

Standards April: Libraries

We sweep through the world’s three major time zones; updating our understanding of the literature at the technical foundation of education community safety and sustainability in those time zones 24 times per day. We generally eschew “over-coding” web pages to sustain speed, revision cadence and richness of content as peak priority.  We do not provide a search facility because of copyrights of publishers and time sensitivity of almost everything we do.

Cognitive Science: An Introduction to the Study of Mind

Our daily colloquia are typically doing sessions; with non-USA titles receiving priority until 16:00 UTC and all other titles thereafter.  We assume policy objectives are established (Safer-Simpler-Lower-Cost, Longer-Lasting).   Because we necessarily get into the weeds, and because much of the content is time-sensitive and copyright protected, we usually schedule a separate time slot to hammer on technical specifics so that our response to consultations are meaningful and contribute to the goals of the standards developing organization and to the goals of stewards of education community real assets.

1. Leviathan.  We track noteworthy legislative proposals in the United States 118th Congress.  Not many deal specifically with education community real assets since the relevant legislation is already under administrative control of various Executive Branch Departments such as the Department of Education.

We do not advocate in legislative activity at any level.   We respond to public consultations but there it ends.

We track federal legislative action because it provides a stroboscopic view of the moment — the “national conversation”– in communities that are simultaneously a business and a culture.  Even though more than 90 percent of such proposals are at the mercy of the party leadership the process does enlighten the strengths and weakness of a governance system run entirely through the counties on the periphery of Washington D.C.  It is impossible to solve technical problems in facilities without sensitivity to the zietgeist that has accelerated in education communities everywhere.

Department of Energy

Lorem ipsum

Federal Aviation Administration

Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools | Consultation closes April 14, 2023

Science & Technology Policy Office

Request for Information; NSPM 33 Research Security Programs Standard Requirement | Consultation closes June 5, 2023

 

North Dakota

We typically post one federal and one state level consultation or action every day for at least one of the 50-states — in the lower right corner of our home page when most education communities in the United States have begun a new work day.  Examples, irregularly linked:

U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security: Public consultation on US standards system rule (November 8)

2National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Post-Quantum Cryptography Practice Guide (June 8)

Public Consultation on Semiconductor Manufacturing (November 28)

NIST Awards Funding to 5 Universities to Advance Standards Education

NIST Center for Neutron Research: 2022 Outstanding Student Poster Presentation

Commerce Levels Playing Field to Support U.S. Stakeholder Participation in International Standards Setting Activities

NIST Report Outlines Strategic Opportunities for U.S. Semiconductor Manufacturing

Occupational exposure and indoor environmental quality evaluation from operating multiple desktop 3D printers in an office environment within a library.

3ANSI ISO Business  (Many of these projects are normally covered during our Hello World! colloquia

ANSI April 2023 Public Policy Update

ANSI January Report 2023 on ISO, IEC & ITU Work Items

ISO Standardization Foresight Framework | Trend Report 2022

New ISO Subcommittee ISO/TC 197/SC 1 – Hydrogen at Scale and Horizontal Energy Systems

New ISO Subcommittee ISO/TC 67/SC 10 – Enhanced oil recovery

Update: Certification+Degree (C+D) pathways in information technology (IT) and health sciences.

2023 Student Paper Competition Theme: Standards Supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.  Submissions due 2 June 2023

Standards Coordination Office | USA WTO TBT Enquiry Point 

USNC/IEC

Consultations (Some posted with IEEE Education & Healthcare Facilities Committee) | Direct access to primary workspace

4. Fast Forward  

Looking Ahead: 2024

5. Rewind

Retrodiction

Lights Out

6. Corrigenda


International Standardization Organization Week Date

 

Readings

Glossary: Education

The College Idea: Andrew Delbanco

Readings: The “30-30” Rule for Outdoor Athletic Events Lightning Hazard

April 16, 2024
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Thunderstorm | Shelter (Building: 30/30 Rule)

The standards for delaying outdoor sports due to lightning are typically set by governing bodies such as sports leagues, associations, or organizations, as well as local weather authorities. These standards may vary depending on the specific sport, location, and level of play. However, some common guidelines for delaying outdoor sports due to lightning include:

  1. Lightning Detection Systems: Many sports facilities are equipped with lightning detection systems that can track lightning activity in the area. These systems use sensors to detect lightning strikes and provide real-time information on the proximity and severity of the lightning threat. When lightning is detected within a certain radius of the sports facility, it can trigger a delay or suspension of outdoor sports activities.
  2. Lightning Distance and Time Rules: A common rule of thumb used in outdoor sports is the “30-30” rule, which states that if the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is less than 30 seconds, outdoor activities should be suspended, and participants should seek shelter. The idea is that lightning can strike even when it is not raining, and thunder can indicate the proximity of lightning. Once the thunder is heard within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, the delay or suspension should be implemented.
  3. Local Weather Authority Guidelines: Local weather authorities, such as the National Weather Service in the United States, may issue severe weather warnings that include lightning information. Sports organizations may follow these guidelines and suspend outdoor sports activities when severe weather warnings, including lightning, are issued for the area.
  4. Sports-Specific Guidelines: Some sports may have specific guidelines for lightning delays or suspensions. For example, golf often follows a “Play Suspended” policy, where play is halted immediately when a siren or horn is sounded, and players are required to leave the course and seek shelter. Other sports may have specific rules regarding how long a delay should last, how players should be informed, and when play can resume.

It’s important to note that safety should always be the top priority when it comes to lightning and outdoor sports. Following established guidelines and seeking shelter when lightning is detected or severe weather warnings are issued can help protect participants from the dangers of lightning strikes.

Noteworthy: NFPA titles such as NFPA 780 and NFPA 70 Article 242 deal largely with wiring safety, informed by assuring a low-resistance path to earth (ground)

There are various lightning detection and monitoring devices available on the market that can help you stay safe during thunderstorms. Some of these devices can track the distance of lightning strikes and alert you when lightning is detected within a certain radius of your location. Some devices can also provide real-time updates on lightning strikes in your area, allowing you to make informed decisions about when to seek shelter.

Examples of such devices include personal lightning detectors, lightning alert systems, and weather stations that have lightning detection capabilities. It is important to note that these devices should not be solely relied upon for lightning safety and should be used in conjunction with other safety measures, such as seeking shelter indoors and avoiding open areas during thunderstorms.

2028 National Electrical Safety Code

April 16, 2024
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Project Introduction for the 2028 Edition (2:39 minutes)

Changes proposals for the Edition will be received until 15 May 2024

Project Workspace: Update Data Tables in IEEE Recommended Practice for the Design of Reliable Industrial and Commercial Power Systems

Painting by Linda Kortesoja Klenczar

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission: Electrical Resource Adequacy

Relevant Research

The standard of care for electrical safety at high and low voltage is set by both the NEC and the NESC. There are gaps, however (or, at best “gray areas”) — the result of two technical cultures: utility power culture and building fire safety culture. There is also tradition. Local system conditions and local adaptation of regulations vary. Where there is a gap; the more rigorous requirement should govern safety of the public and workers.

The 2023 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)– an IEEE title often mistaken for NFPA’s National Electrical Code (NEC) — was released for public use about six months ago; its normal 5-year revision cycle interrupted by the circumstances of the pandemic.   Compared with the copy cost of the NEC, the NESC is pricey, though appropriate for its target market — the electric utility industry.  Because the 2023 revision has not been effectively “field tested” almost all of the available support literature is, effectively, “sell sheets” for pay-for seminars and written by authors presenting themselves as experts for the battalions of litigators supporting the US utility industry.  Without the ability to sell the NESC to prospective “insiders” the NESC would not likely be commercial prospect for IEEE.   As the lawsuits and violations and conformance interests make their mark in the fullness of time; we shall see the 2023 NESC “at work”.

IEEE Standards Association: Additional Information, Articles, Tools, and Resources Related to the NESC

Office of the President: Economic Benefits of Increasing Electric Grid Resilience to Weather Outages

Research Tracks:

  1. Smart Grid Technologies:
    • Investigating advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of power grids.
  2. Energy Storage Systems:
    • Researching and developing new energy storage technologies to improve grid stability and accommodate intermittent renewable energy sources.
  3. Distributed Generation Integration:
    • Studying methods to seamlessly integrate distributed energy resources such as solar panels and wind turbines into the existing power grid.
  4. Grid Resilience and Security:
    • Exploring technologies and strategies to enhance the resilience of power grids against cyber-attacks, natural disasters, and other threats.
  5. Demand Response Systems:
  6. Advanced Sensors and Monitoring:
    • Developing new sensor technologies and monitoring systems to enhance grid visibility, detect faults, and enable predictive maintenance.
  7. Power Quality and Reliability:
    • Studying methods to improve power quality, reduce voltage fluctuations, and enhance overall grid reliability.
  8. Integration of Electric Vehicles (EVs):
    • Researching the impact of widespread electric vehicle adoption on the grid and developing smart charging infrastructure.
  9. Grid Automation and Control:
    • Exploring advanced automation and control strategies to optimize grid operations, manage congestion, and improve overall system efficiency.
  10. Campus Distribution Grid Selling and Buying 

Relevant Technical Literature

IEC 60050 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 601: Generation, transmission and distribution of electricity | April 16

Recommended Practice for Battery Management Systems in Energy Storage Applications | Comments Due March 26

Medical electrical equipment: basic safety and essential performance of medical beds for children | April 26

Medical electrical equipment: basic safety and essential performance of medical beds for children | April 26

 

Standards:

Presentation | FERC-NERC-Regional Entity Joint Inquiry Into Winter Storm Elliott

IEEE Guide for Joint Use of Utility Poles with Wireline and/or Wireless Facilities

NESC Rule 250B and Reliability Based Design

NESC Requirements (Strength and Loading)

Engineering Analysis of Possible Effects of 2017 NESC Change Proposal to Remove 60′ Exemption

National Electrical Safety Code Workspace


Joint Use of Electric Power Transmission & Distribution Facilities and Equipment

A Framework to Quantify the Value of Operational Resilience for Electric Power Distribution Systems

August 14, 2003 Power Outage at the University of Michigan

Technologies for Interoperability in Microgrids for Energy Access


National Electrical Safety Code: Revision Cycles 1993 through 2023

 


February 24, 2023

The new code goes into effect 1 February 2023, but is now available for access on IEEE Xplore! Produced exclusively by IEEE, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) specifies best practices for the safety of electric supply and communication utility systems at both public and private utilities.  The bibliography is expanding rapidly:

NESC 2023: Introduction to the National Electrical Safety Code

NESC 2023: Rule Changes

NESC 2023Safety Rules for Installation and Maintenance of Overhead Electric Supply

NESC 2023Safety Rules for the Installation and Maintenance of Underground Electric Supply and Communication Lines

NESC 2023: Rules for Installation and Maintenance of Electric Supply Stations

IEEE Digital Library

Grid Edge Visibility: Gaps and a road map


October 31, 2022

The IEEE NESC technical committee has released a “fast track” review of proposed changes to fault-managed power system best practice:

CP5605 Provides a definition of new Fault Managed Power System (FMPS) circuits used for the powering of
communications equipment clearly defines what constitutes a FMPS circuit for the purposes of application of the NESC
Rules of 224 and 344
https://ieee-sa.imeetcentral.com/p/eAAAAAAASPXtAAAAADhMnPs

CP5606 Provides new definitions of Communication Lines to help ensure that Fault Managed Power Systems (FMPS)
circuits used for the exclusive powering of communications equipment are clearly identified as communications lines
and makes an explicit connection to Rule 224B where the applicable rules for such powering circuits are found.
https://ieee-sa.imeetcentral.com/p/eAAAAAAASPXpAAAAAFfvWIs

CP5607 The addition of this exception permits cables containing Fault Managed Power System (FMPS) circuits used for
the exclusive powering of communications equipment to be installed without a shield.
https://ieee-sa.imeetcentral.com/p/eAAAAAAASPXuAAAAAEEt3p4

CP5608 The addition of this exception permits cables containing Fault Managed Power System (FMPS) circuits used for
the exclusive powering of communications equipment to be installed without a shield.
https://ieee-sa.imeetcentral.com/p/eAAAAAAASPXvAAAAAGrzyeI

We refer them to the IEEE Education & Healthcare Facilities Committee for further action, if any.

 


August 5, 2022

We collaborate closely with the IEEE Education & Healthcare Facilities Committee (IEEE E&H) to negotiate the standard of care for power security on the #SmartCampus  since many campus power systems are larger than publicly regulated utilities.  Even when they are smaller, the guidance in building the premise wiring system — whether the premise is within a building, outside the building (in which the entire geography of the campus footprint is the premise), is inspired by IEEE Standards Association administrated technical committees.

Northeast Community College | Norfolk, Nebraska

Today we begin a list of noteworthy changes to be understood in the next few Power colloquia.  See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting.

  1. New rules 190 through 195 cover photovoltaic generating stations.  Rule 116c adds an exception for short lengths of insulated power cables and short-circuit protection if the situation involves fewer than 1,000 volts.
  2. Rule 320B has been revised to clarify separations that apply to communications and supply in different conduit systems.
  3. Table 410-4 is based on the latest arc flash testing on live-front transformers.
  4. Rule 092A adds an exception allowing protection, control, and safety battery systems to not be grounded.
  5. Rules 234 B1, C1, D1 were revised to better present vertical and horizontal wind clearances, and to coordinate requirements with the new Table 234-7.
  6. Rule 120A was revised to provide correction factors for clearances on higher elevations.
  7. Table 253-1 has been revised to reduce the load factor for fiber-reinforced polymer components under wire tension—including dead ends—for Grade C construction.
  8. Rule 410A now requires a specific radio-frequency safety program for employees who might be exposed.
  9. In the Clearances section, as well as in the specification of the Grade of Construction in Table 242-1, the Code further clarifies the use of non-hazardous fiber optic cables as telecom providers continue to expand their networks.
  10. Revisions in the Strength & Loading sections include modified Rule 250C, which addresses extreme wind loading for overhead lines. Two wind maps are now provided instead of the previous single one. A map for Grade B, the highest grade of construction, with a Mean Recurrence Interval (MRI) of 100 years (corresponding to a one percent annual probability of occurrence) is provided in place of the previous 50–90-year MRI map. For Grade C construction, a separate 50-year MRI (two percent annual probability of occurrence) map is now provided. In the previous Code, a factor was applied to the 50–90-year MRI map for application to Grade C.
  11. Changes were also made to the method of determining the corresponding wind loads, consistent with the latest engineering practices as an example of a Code revision focused on public safety, the ground end of all anchor guys adjacent to regularly traveled pedestrian thoroughfares, such as sidewalks, and similar places where people can be found must include a substantial and conspicuous marker to help prevent accidents. The previous Code did not require the marking of every such anchor guy.
  12. Significant revisions were made in Section 14 covering batteries. Previous editions of the code were based on lead-acid technology and batteries only used for backup power. The 2023 Code incorporates the new battery technologies and addresses energy storage and backup power.
  13. A new Section 19 of the code covers photovoltaic generating stations, with sections addressing general codes, location, grounding configurations, vegetation management, DC overcurrent protection, and DC conductors. These new rules accommodate large-scale solar power projects.
  14. In the Clearances section, all rules for wireless antenna structures have been consolidated in the equipment section (Rule 238 and 239), which makes the Code more user-friendly.
  15. A new subcommittee was created focusing on generating stations, with the original subcommittee continuing to address substations.
  16. A working group is investigating Fault Managed Power Systems (FMPS) cables as the technology may be used for 5G networks. The team is looking at possible impacts, including clearances and work rules.

 


February 18, 2021

 

Several proposals recommending improvements to the 2017 National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) were submitted to the IEEE subcommittees drafting the 2022 revision of the NESC.   Some of the proposals deal with coordination with the National Electrical Code — which is now in its 2023 revision cycle.  Keep in mind that that NESC is revised every 5 years at the moment; the NEC is revised every 3 years.

The original University of Michigan standards advocacy enterprise has been active in writing the NESC since the 2012 edition and set up a workspace for use by electrical professionals in the education industry.   We will be using this workspace as the 2022 NESC continues along its developmental path:

IEEE 2022 NESC Workspace

The revision schedule — also revised in response to the circumstances of the pandemic — is linked below::

NESC 2023 Edition Revision Schedule*

 

The NESC is a standing item on the 4-times monthly teleconferences of the IEEE Education & Healthcare Facilities committee.  The next online meeting is shown on the top menu of the IEEE E&H website:

IEEE E&H Committee

We have a copy of the first draft of the 2023 NESC and welcome anyone to join us for an online examination during any of Power & ICT teleconferences.  See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting.

Business unit leaders, facility managers and electrical engineers working in the education facilities industry may be interested in the campus power system reliability database.   Forced outages on large research campuses, for example, can have enterprise interruption cost of $100,000 to $1,000,000 per minute.    The campus power system forced outage database discriminates between forced outages attributed to public utility interruptions and forced outages attributed to the university-owned power system.   The E&H committee will convey some of the discipline applied by the IEEE 1366 technical committee into its study of campus power systems and, ultimately, setting a benchmark for the standard of care for large university power systems.

 

 

* The IEEE changed the nominal date of the next edition; likely owed to pandemic-related slowdown typical for most standards developing organizations.

Issue: [16-67]

Contact: Mike Anthony, Robert G. Arno, Lorne Clark, Nehad El-Sharif, Jim Harvey, Kane Howard, Joe Weber, Guiseppe Parise, Jim Murphy

Category: Electrical, Energy Conservation & Management, Occupational Safety

ARCHIVE: University of Michigan Advocacy in the NESC 2007 – 2017


LEARN MORE:

P1366 – Guide for Electric Power Distribution Reliability Indices 

University Design Guidelines that reference the National Electrical Safety Code

 

Electrical Resource Adequacy

April 16, 2024
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“When buying and selling are controlled by legislation,
the first things to be bought and sold are legislators.”
P.J. O’Rourke

Predictive Reliability Analysis of Power Distribution Systems Considering the Effects of Seasonal Factors on Outage Data Using Weibull Analysis Combined With Polynomial Regression


February 2024 Highlights 

Failure Rate Prediction Model of Substation Equipment Based on Weibull Distribution and Time Series Analysis

January 2024 Highlights



Transmission Planning Using a Reliability Criterion

Readings / The Administrative State

In power system engineering, availability and reliability are two important concepts, but they refer to different aspects of the system’s performance.

Reliability:

  • Reliability refers to the ability of a power system to perform its intended function without failure for a specified period under given operating conditions. It is essentially a measure of how dependable the system is.
  • Reliability metrics often include indices such as the frequency and duration of outages, failure rates, mean time between failures (MTBF), and similar measures.
  • Reliability analysis focuses on identifying potential failure modes, predicting failure probabilities, and implementing measures to mitigate risks and improve system resilience.Availability:
  • Availability, on the other hand, refers to the proportion of time that a power system is operational and able to deliver power when needed, considering both scheduled and unscheduled downtime.
  • Availability is influenced by factors such as maintenance schedules, repair times, and system design redundancies.
  • Availability is typically expressed as a percentage and can be calculated using the ratio of the uptime to the total time (uptime plus downtime).
  • Availability analysis aims to maximize the operational readiness of the system by minimizing downtime and optimizing maintenance strategies.

Reliability focuses on the likelihood of failure and the ability of the system to sustain operations over time, while availability concerns the actual uptime and downtime of the system, reflecting its readiness to deliver power when required. Both concepts are crucial for assessing and improving the performance of power systems, but they address different aspects of system behavior.

 

November 2023 Highlights | FERC insight | Volume 10

Determining System and Subsystem Availability Requirements: Resource Planning and Evaluation

Comment: These 1-hour sessions tend to be administrative in substance, meeting the minimum requirements of the Sunshine Act. This meeting was no exception. Access to the substance of the docket is linked here.

Noteworthy: Research into the natural gas supply following Winter Storm Elliot.

 


August 14, 2003


 UPDATED POLICIES ON U.S. DECARBONIZATION AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSITIONS


June 15:FERC Finalizes Plans to Boost Grid Reliability in Extreme Weather Conditions

On Monday June 13th, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission commissioners informed the House Committee on Energy and Commerce that the “environmental justice” agenda prohibits reliable dispatchable electric power needed for national power security. One megawatt of natural gas generation does not equal one megawatt of renewable generation. The minority party on the committee — the oldest standing legislative committee in the House of Representatives (established 1795) — appears indifferent to the reliability consequences of its policy.

Joint Federal-State Task Force on Electric Transmission

“Our nation’s continued energy transition requires the efficient development of new transmission infrastructure. Federal and state regulators must address numerous transmission-related issues, including how to plan and pay for new transmission infrastructure and how to navigate shared federal-state regulatory authority and processes. As a result, the time is ripe for greater federal-state coordination and cooperation.”












 

Bibliography:

Natural Gas Act of 1938

Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978

Glossary of Terms Used in NERC Reliability Standards

The Major Questions Doctrine and Transmission Planning Reform

As utilities spend billions on transmission, support builds for independent monitoring

States press FERC for independent monitors on transmission planning, spending as Southern Co. balks

Related:

Homeland Power Security

At the July 20th meeting of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Tristan Kessler explained the technical basis for a Draft Final Rule for Improvements to Generator Interconnection Procedures and Agreements, On August 16th the Commission posted a video reflecting changes in national energy policy since August 14, 2003; the largest blackout in American history.

Group A Model Building Codes

April 16, 2024
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Click to launch LIVECAST

2024 International Building Code

2024 / 2025 / 2026 Code Development: Group A (2024)

Ahead of the April 7-16 Committee Action Hearings in Orlando for the Group A tranche of titles in the ICC catalog we will examine the transcripts linked below:

International Building Code (Occupancy Classification and Use)

Educational Group E
Note that there is a great deal of nuance in the definitions for healthcare and research-related occupancies

International Building Code (Electrical)

Emergency and Standby Power Systems

Lightning Protection Systems

IBC Chapter 27 Proposal

International Building Code (Fire Safety)

International Existing Building Code

International Fire Code

International Mechanical Code

International Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities

International Plumbing Code

International Property Maintenance Code

International Swimming Pool and Spa Code

International Zoning Code

We will examine safety and sustainability concepts tracking in the monographs linked below:

2021 / 2022 Code Development: Group A

2021 GROUP A PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE I-CODES (2306 Pages)

2021 GROUP A PUBLIC COMMENT AGENDA (1425 Pages)

There are over 100 concepts “in play”; a partial list appears below:

423.5.2 Location of schools used as storm shelters.

423.4.1 Required Occupant Capacity in storm shelters

917.1 Requirement for mass notification studies for colleges and universities.

403.3.6 Door locking.

1003.3.1 Fat, oil and grease receptors in kitchens.

Sections 403.1.1 and 403.2.  Minimum number of plumbing fixtures in various occupancy classifications and how many genders.

1110.3 Adult Changing Stations.

410.4.1 Performance theater actor changing room separation from stage.

1202.7 Soil Gas Control.  Radon levels in schools.

1204.1.1 Percentage of natural light in classrooms.

321.1 Artificial combustible vegetation on roofs and near buildings.

907.2.1 Manual fire alarm pull stations located at outdoor stadium bleachers

915.2.3 4 Carbon monoxide detectors in Group E occupancies.

501.1 Accessory dwelling units in residential zones

801.2.3.1 Accessory dwelling unit parking.

We will have time to sort through them, assign priorities and prepare proposals based upon colloquia over the next few weeks.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

April 30, 2023 Update of the New ICC Code, Standard and Guideline Process

Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures



Updated: September 13

(Original Post: April 12, 2021)

 

During today’s colloquium we will review all of the concepts tracking in the Group A tranche relevant to student housing facilities owned by the college, university or school district; soon to be discussed during the Committee Action Hearings starting September 22nd.   There are quite a few so we will likely not have time to cover best practice titles for off-campus housing; a sensitive area.  We will set a separate colloquium for this topic in early 2022.

Group A Committee Action Hearings begin September 22nd and we will provide a link to the ICC livestream every day.


Updated: August 17, 2021

(Original Post: April 12, 2021)

During today’s colloquium on fire safety we will review all of the concepts tracking in the Group A tranche; soon to be discussed during the Committee Action Hearings starting September 22nd.

 


July 12th

For today’s colloquium on elevators and lifts we will review the following concepts tracking in the Group A tranche:

IBC § 1109.2.1| E30-21, E31-21, et. al | The intent of this proposal(s) is to allow for ramps to serve as an accessible route off an occupied roof instead of requiring standby power on the elevator for that occupied roof.

IBC § 1109.2.1| E30-21, E31-21, et. al | Related to the above.  Parking garages and self-service storage facilities have extremely low occupancy loads. Increasing the 4-story limit to 6-
stories for when standby power for elevators is required takes this practical difference in uses into account.

IBC § 1109.2.2| E34-21, et. al | Providing the fire department the option for using the elevator for assisted evacuation in any elevator building using fire department recall; with the additional
improvements of standby power (1009.4.1) at five stories and the fire service access elevator protections at 120 feet.

IBC § 1010.2.15 | E56-21 | Elevator lobby exit access doors

IBC § 1010.2. | E56-21 | Elevator lobby exit access doors

IBC § 3006.3 |  G184-21 | Elevator hoistway pressure

IBC § 3001.2 |  G175-21 | Elevator communication systems

IBC § 1020.2.1 |  G182-21 | Elevator hoistway fire protection

IBC § 3007.6 |  G187-21 | Elevator corridors and access

Keep in mind that most of these failed as stand-alone proposals but will likely inform decisions on related proposals; at least administratively.

Continuation of the Group A Code Development may be tracked below:

2021/2022 Code Development Cycle

You may key in your own responses starting HERE.

The ICC catalog informs a large part of our own agenda so we deal with titles within it nearly every day on nearly every issue.  For example, we will track interaction of Article 620 of the National Electrical Code, Chapter 7 of the Life Safety Code, and Chapter 30 Elevators and Conveying Systems in the International Building Code


June 14

For today’s colloquium — a review of the construction spend rate — today note the following:

Table of Contents identifying administration of the Group A revision cycle

For the Nurse & Dentist colloquium today we note the following:

We find most of the discussion centered on nursing home safety concepts; a focus area given the circumstances of the pandemic.   Public comment closes the end of this week.

For the Lively Arts colloquium today we note the following:

  • Fire hazard associated with theatrical lighting and assembly construction materials.
  • Gender sensitive water closet count in theaters and assembly areas
  • Schools as storm shelters

For the Housing colloquium earlier this month we examined the report linked below for concepts related to student housing facilities in these three groups:

  • University-owned dormitories
  • Student residences owned by the private sector; a very large market now
  • Privately-owned off-campus housing in close proximity to educational campuses

2021 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ACTION HEARINGS ON THE 2021 EDITIONS OF THE GROUP A INTERNATIONAL CODES

Consultation closes July 2nd.

We will also examine related concepts tracking through the NFPA and ASHRAE catalog.


June 9

What got through?  The complete monograph is linked below.  We will be picking through these one-by-one, topic-by-topic, according to the topics of our daily colloquia ahead of the July 2nd deadline:

2021 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ACTION HEARINGS ON THE 2021 EDITIONS OF THE GROUP A INTERNATIONAL CODES

– G97-21: Exception expansion for occupant capacity when schools are used as storm shelters

– G35-21 Table 307 Hazardous materials in higher education laboratories

– F105-21 Risk assessments for mass notification system scope expansion for younger children

– Others regarding healthcare settings too nuanced and complex to describe briefly here….

Generally speaking, most of the proposals briefly identified below were rejected.

CLICK HERE to comment directly.   Join us any day at 15:00 UTC


May 24

CLICK HERE for the Results of Committee Action Hearings on the 2021 proposed changes to the international codes.  You may key in your own comments on these results into ICC’s cdpACCESS Code Development System until July 2nd.  Public Comment Hearings run from September 22 through September 29th according to the ICC 2021/2022 Group A Code Development schedule.


April 12

The International Code Council will host public hearings on its Group A Codes, many of which will affect education community safety and sustainability.  The proposals on the docket of the various committee meetings are relevant to every topic on our daily colloquia (See CALENDAR).  We will be attending these meetings and discussing proposals and decisions in this first part of ICC’s code development process.  The transcript of the complete monograph is linked below:

2021 GROUP A PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE I-CODES (2306 Pages)

We will be referring to this transcript every day for the next month.  CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW TO START LIVECAST STREAM.

VIEW ONLY WEBCAST

Proposals to watch:

IPC § 403.1.1 | P26-21 | Calculation method revision for plumbing fixtures for sporting arenas

IFC § 304 et. al | F9-21 | Waste container concepts

IFC § 304.1 | F8-21 | Valet waste concepts in R-2 occupancies

ICCPC § 1205 | PC15-21 | Non-potable and grey-water recycling

IFC § 805.2 | G3-21 | Wastebaskets and linen containers in Group I-1, I-2, etc

IBC § 713.13.4 | FS57-21 | Chute discharge rooms in recycling or laundry areas

IBC § 503.1 | G104-21 | Rooftop photovoltaic systems.

IBC § 1105.1.1 | E116-21 | Power-operated doors at public entrances.  (Electrification of building openings gathers pace.  Remember the good old days when you simply reached for the doorknob?)

IBC § 716.2.6.1, et al | FS85-21 | Fire doors in storm shelters

IBC § 202, et. al | G94-21 | Expansion of storm shelter concepts to “severe windstorms”

IFC § 304.3, et al | F9-21 | 304.3.7 Waste containers with a capacity of 20 gallons or more in Group R-2 college and university dormitories.

IBC § 1213, et al | G172-21 | Stanchions and grab bars (student dormitories and healthcare facilities)

IBC § 1109.2.1| E30-21, E31-21, et. al | The intent of this proposal(s) is to allow for ramps to serve as an accessible route off an occupied roof instead of requiring standby power on the elevator for that occupied roof.

IBC § 1109.2.1| E30-21, E31-21, et. al | Related to the above.  Parking garages and self-service storage facilities have extremely low occupancy loads. Increasing the 4-story limit to 6-
stories for when standby power for elevators is required takes this practical difference in uses into account.

IBC § 1109.2.2| E34-21, et. al | Providing the fire department the option for using the elevator for assisted evacuation in any elevator building using fire department recall; with the additional
improvements of standby power (1009.4.1) at five stories and the fire service access elevator protections at 120 feet.

IBC § 1010.2.7| E47-21 | Exceptions for stairway door operability with failure of power supply

IBC § 3301, et. al| G199-21 Part 1 | Fire safety during construction concepts; removal of waste, Site Safety Plan

IBC Section 202, et. al | G110-21 |  Live Fire Training Building(s)

IMC Table 403.3.3 | M21-21 |  Minimum Ventilation Rates for Animal Facilities

IBC § 1004.8, et al| E10-21 |  Concentrated business use areas (such as computer rooms and data processing centers).  See the G99-21 series of proposals for computer rooms.

IFC, et. al| F18-21 |  Closer correlation with NFPA 96 (large administrative changes for O&M of ICT fire protection systems)

IFC § 308.4.1, et al| G44-21 |  Groups R-2 dormitories

IBC § 202 (NEW) | G66-21 |  Electrical mobility definitions

IBC § 1107.2, et al | E124-21 & E125-21 & E126-21 |  Electrical vehicle charging stations for R-2 occupancies.

IBC § 1104 | E11-21 |  Posting of occupant load

IBC § 1009.8| E35-21 |  Two-way emergency communication

IFC § 202 et. al | F69-21| Animal Housing Facility

IPC § 609.3. al | P102-21| Hot handwashing water

IFC § 202 et. al | F175-21| Healthcare Laboratory Definition

IFC § 911-21 | F119-21| Crosswalk and correlation with NFPA 99 and NFPA 70

IPC § 1003.1 et. al | P131-21| Fat, oil and grease interceptors (for kitchens)

IFC § 903.2 et. al | F65-21| Ambulatory Care facilities

IFC § 917.1, et. al | F105-21| More risk analysis for Group E occupancies

IFC Chapter 9 Fire & Life Safety Systems | F102-21 | State-by-state analysis supporting hottened fire safety requirements

IFC § 202 et. al | F5-21| Occupancy classifications

ICCPC Chapter 3 Design Performance Levels | PC1-21 | Risk Categories for schools and other occupancy types

IBC § 503.2, et. al | G190-21 | Replacement buildings on the same lot

IBC § 1204.1, et. al | G166-21 |  Classrooms Group E natural light

IBC § 423.4.1 | G96-21, et. al | Critical emergency operations; schools as storm shelters; required occupancy capacity

IBC § 1202.7 | G162-21 | Soil gas control systems in new educational buildings

IFC § 1103.9 | F116-21 | Carbon Monoxide detection

IPC § 403.3 | P33-21 | Location of toilet facilities

IPMC Chapter 3 General Requirements | PM10-21 | Accessibility and maintenance

IBC § 1008.1, et. al | E24-21 | Means of egress illumination

IBC § 202 | E26-21 | New definition for energy storage system

IFC § 1203.1.1| E26-21 | New definition for energy storage system

IBC § 1204.1.1 | G165-21 | Classroom natural light criteria

IBC § 1013.5 | E71-21 | Photoluminescent exit signs installation where they can actually be charged

IBC § 1010.2.10 | E49-21| Access control door locking system

IBC § 1010.2.11 | E51-21 and E52-21, et. al | Sensor release of electrically locked egress doors & delayed egress concepts

IBC § 1010.2.15 | E56-21 | Elevator lobby exit access doors

IBC § 1010.2. | E56-21 | Elevator lobby exit access doors

IBC § 1010.12 | E42-21 | Locks and latches

IBC NEW § 202 | 43-21 | New definitions for Automatic Flush Bolt, et. al

IBC § 1010.2.3 | E44-21 | (Door) Hardware height

IBC NEW § 202 | E55-21 | Control vestibules (hospitals)

IBC § 1110.3 NEW | E142-21 | Adult Changing Stations

IBC § 3301| G199-21 Part I | Fire safety during constructionDenver Public Schools

IFC § NEW SECTIONS 203 Occupancy Classification and Use | F5-21 | See Page 1086

IFC § Chapters 1 – 3 | F14-21| Significant changes to administrative chapters

IBC § 410.1 | G73-21| Stage v.  Platform nomenclature with respect to fire load

IBC § 410.2.1| G77-21| Stage fire hazards

IBC § 410.2.1| G79-21| Stage fire hazards

IBC § 423.4 | G96-21| Critical emergency operations; occupant load for storm shelters

IBC § 423.5.1 | G97-21| Occupant load for storm shelters

G99-21 Part II et. al | Definitions of Information & Communications Technology; revisions to Section 429 Information Technology Equipment Facilities

G112-21, et. al| Sleeping lofts (common in student residence halls)

IBC § 505.2.2 | G115-21 Mixed occupancy buildings

IBC § 506.3.2 | G116-21 Minimum building frontage distance

IBC § 302.1 | G121-21 Occupancy classification

IBC § 1210.4 | G174-21 Use of radiant energy to inactivate bacteria

ICCPC § 1401.3.8 | PC16-21 Protection of secondary power services and equipment

IBC § 2701.1.1 | Group I-2 Electrical systems

IBC & IFC G175-21 | Lightning Protection Systems

IBC § 3006.3 |  G184-21 | Elevator hoistway pressure

IBC § 3001.2 |  G175-21 | Elevator communication systems

IBC § 1020.2.1 |  G182-21 | Elevator hoistway fire protection

IBC § 3007.6 |  G187-21 | Elevator corridors and access

IBC APPENDIX Q (NEW) |  G201-21  | Temporary Structures and Used to Serve Emergencies

IFC § 705.5.1 |  FS17-21 | Buildings in a public right-of-way

Much has changed in the ICC code development process–not the least of which is the absence of the Livecast. Today we will examine our own proposals regarding, a) a performance-based electrical design of building interior feeder power chains; b) market-making by incumbents enlivened by the protected class of money that flows into student accommodations on and off campus.

Notes on Group A Codes 2021

H.R. 7386 Career and Technical Education Advocacy Grant Program Act

April 15, 2024
mike@standardsmichigan.com
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Laken Riley Act passes 251-170, with 37 Democrats joining all Republicans in support

The murder of Laken Riley occurred on February 22, 2024, in Athens, Georgia. Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student at Augusta University, disappeared when she was jogging at the University of Georgia (UGA). Her body was found near a lake of a wooded area at UGA; her death was caused by blunt force trauma.  The police described Riley’s killing as a “crime of opportunity”, and that no murder had been committed at UGA in almost 30 years; a gap filled by the open border policy of Democrat President Joseph Biden, Homeland Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and chain of Democrat District Attorney’s who let the perpetrator run free.

The murder has international news, generating extensive media attention — though not nearly as much as the George Floyd tragedy and the Black Lives Matter zietgeist — sparking debate over illegal immigration in United States after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that Ibarra is a Venezuelan illegal immigrant who is not a U.S. citizen and was caught crossing the border but released back into the United States

Jose Antonio Ibarra, a 26-year-old Venezuelan citizen who entered the US illegally, was arrested by UGA police and has been charged with felony murder, false imprisonment, and kidnapping.[4] Ibarra lived about 1 mile (1.6 km) from the area where Riley’s body was found..

European leaders are indifferent to the rape and murder of their young women by migrant men also:


But what is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature?  If men were angels, no government would be necessary.  If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.  In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this:  you must first enable the government to control control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.”James Madison, Federalist 51

Relevant Federal Executive & Legislative Committees

House of Representatives: Committee on Education & the Workforce

Senate: Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions 

SCOTUS: West Virginia, et al. v. Environmental Protection Agency

United States District Court, Michigan | Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School et al. v Ann Arbor School District Board


H.R. 305: One School, One Nurse Act of 2023

H.R. 6078: GROWTH Act of 2023

H.R. 3425: To amend the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 to authorize capacity building grants for community

H.R. 221: Expand Pell Grant eligibility to certain trade schools

H.R. 193: Teach Relevant Apprenticeships to Drive Economic Success Act

H.R. 202: States’ Education Reclamation Act

H.R. 302: Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2023

The University Campus As A Designed Work and an Artefact of Cultural Heritage

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