Our J&P Family Has Expanded to Three Locations!

As we wrap up the third quarter here at J&P (can’t believe it’s already the Holiday season!), we welcome winter with open arms AND the addition of a few more new employees.  Charles, Noah, and Michael are going to be helping in the shop at the Warren location and Jacob is our newest addition to the bus duct warehouse helping as job-site support, forklift, and duct reconditioning. 

Duct Shop in Port Huron, MI

Charles, Noah, and Michael

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance of Bus Ducts

Having an uninterrupted supply of electricity for customers is the main goal of a power generation industry to allow them to meet their demands. It can be very costly for a company to have any unplanned downtime due to any equipment failures. This is a fact when looking at bus duct systems since they effectively transfer power to switchgear and other loads. To prevent avoidable downtimes from occurring it is imperative to have preventative bus duct maintenance in place.

Neglect on Systems

Too often, critical systems like bus ducts that transmit power at industrial buildings go neglected. The reason behind this is because people are under the wrong concept that since bus duct systems do not consist of moving internal parts that they do not need regular maintenance or service. Over time, carbon and other foreign debris can build up and contaminate the bus systems that will, in turn, cause cataclysmic arcs and damage the equipment. Without proper inspection and preventative maintenance performed regularly, the equipment will have without a doubt have unexpected failures that will cause outages, can further damage equipment and increase safety risks for personnel as well. 

Preventing Failures

It is very important to have regular and systematic inspections of the bus duct systems performed. If the installation is done in unfavorable conditions, for example, high temperature/ humidity or environments with a lot of dust it is recommended these inspections are performed at a more frequent interval in these instances. The most common failures that are observed during bus duct failures can range from damaged gaskets/ bellows, grounding issues, cracked weld joints, conductor connection integrity, and even improper termination design or installation.

Installing New Bus Ducts

One factor to consider when installing a new or replacing bus duct system is to consider the ampacity requirement for your actual operating environment as opposed to just choosing one based on a standard chart’s temperature assumption. The most bus generally occupies at high-temperature areas since they are installed near the ceiling. Temperatures will continue to fluctuate while under load or no load as well, so it is important to do the research and know the limits of the equipment. Another good piece of advice is to install extra protection with service conductor bus ducts to protect the bus duct zone from fault. It may be an extra up-front cost but the savings from downtime in the future will be well worth it.

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electricalcompany that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We offer a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus ducts, panelswitches, and transformers. Services include asset management, product reconditioning, and electrical products. More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com

Why is Asset Recovery Important?

Electrical plants can house a plethora of dangerous components and parts, and when one is torn down, for whatever reason, often what is left behind can be troubling for more than one party. Asset recovery is a very important step in this process and is something one should consider when dealing with large-scale tear-down projects. Fortunately, many organizations exist with fully insured, experienced, and professional experts who specialize in the proper recovery of assets of all kinds. Regardless, there are a few reasons to keep in mind as to why asset recovery is important.

Bad material in planet

 Electrical components may sometimes be made from natural resources, but the vast majority are man-made objects and thus do not do the planet any favors when left behind on tear-down sites. The material used to make these objects need to be recovered by a company that specializes in asset recovery so these materials can be stripped down and either recycled properly or reformatted to fit within new products. If this does not happen you can see these objects sticking around far longer than the planet would like, which benefits nobody.

Liabilities and cost

The cost of electrical components and parts can vary from relatively cheap to astonishingly high prices, depending on the nature of the item. It’s obvious that companies want to make money, so the idea of leaving assets and potential dollars on sites is not business owners. Being able to recover these assets ends up saving the supplier or manufacturer thousands of dollars AND prevents the assets from causing harm to the enviroment.

These components or IT assets can be a liability if not properly recovered and/or recycled. For certain IT components and devices, the possibility of sensitive information can always remain despite any attempts of wiping data, and anybody can recover these assets not affiliated with any professional asset recovery organization and use that data to their own advantage. It’s important that proper recovery is completed to not leave any potential data leaks from happening onsite.

Stolen

An obvious reason in which asset recovery is important bleeds into the prior two reasons: stolen property. Because a wide variety of electrical and IT components and parts are very expensive to the manufacturer no business wants to waste the money having their equipment stolen by somebody before it can be properly recovered. Theft is a widespread and universal issue spanning all industries and the theft of electrical components is not spared. It is an ongoing issue with theft and that is a good reason to support the recovery of electrical assets.

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electrical company that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We offer a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus ducts, panelswitches, and transformers. Services include asset management, product reconditioning, and electrical products. More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com

Understanding Bus Plugs

If you are not an electrician or familiar with the terms used in the electric power fields, the products that make our homes and business run efficiently may be very mysterious. For some people, a bug plug sounds like its something the belongs in the automotive industry for actual busses? We are here today to get your electrical knowledge straightened out and give a inside look to what a bus plug really is and what it does.

What Is It exactly?

Bus plugs are basically what the name entails and are large industrial electric plugs that are like the ones you find in homes. However, Industrial or manufacturing plants that utilize heavy machinery require specialized power needs that is unique when compared to typical power distribution systems that are used inside residential or commercial buildings. Each bus plug is designed to connect to a specific section of bus duct or also known as busway, overhead and will then transfer electricity down to any chosen product whether it’s a lighting system or heavy equipment that needs power below. Busways were first produced in the late 1920’s for the automotive industry in Detroit and have since continued to improve and make their ways into many industrial plants to be utilized.

Why use them?

When looking at many industrial plants or buildings, many are structured in design with large open floor plans to maximize the total square footage and allow a variety of uses for the specific area. One of the major benefits of the busway and bus plug system is the flexibility of each product. With this type of installation, there is no physical hard wiring and the whole electrical system can be removed and rearranged to accommodate the building floor plan needed. As the future continues to change the machinery used, there are no concerns as to how power will be given to new equipment when things need to be moved or upgraded. Bus duct systems are a very efficient solution to get a lot of power to a big area that power distribution continues to change frequently. This is another reason why manufacturing plants need these products in order to provide large quantity of power to different areas of the building.

Proper Maintenance

Unplanned downtime can be detrimental and costly to any business and can be avoided with proper maintenance and service on products when needed. Bus ducts are extremely important in effectively providing power to switchgear and other different loads. Unfortunately, it is typical to find that critical systems that transmit power for industrial facilities are often neglected since many of people are unaware that regular maintenance and service is required even though bus ducts do not utilize moving internal parts.

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electrical company that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We offer a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus ducts, panelswitches, and transformers. Services include asset management, product reconditioning, and electrical products. More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com

Questions That Are Important to Ask When Buying Electrical Surplus Inventory Online

When a project is cancelled, warehouses are liquidated, or there are manufacturing overruns an electrical surplus inventory is generated.  Local surplus dealers were once the only sellers of electrical surplus inventory.  Today however, surplus equipment can be purchased through e-commerce platforms.  It is important you should proceed with caution when you come across surplus electrical component’s suppliers online; research and asking the right questions when buying online is crucial.  Below you will see how you should proceed when buying electrical surplus online.

Asking the right questions when buying surplus electrical equipment online helps you make the right purchase.  These questions should include:

• Is the equipment a product that is from the original factory?
• Will the new surplus inventory come in a sealed box?
• Are there any visible structural damage like fractures or cracks in the equipment?
• Do the products being sold contain any proof of safety and reliability?
• Are there any signs of the equipment being burned in any way?
• Has the equipment been in use, when?
• Has the product failed?  What were the circumstances of the failure?
• Do the products come with a warranty? When does the warranty expire?
• Does the equipment have a period in which it can be returned if it does not meet the required standards?

Essentials to Consider When Purchasing Surplus Electrical Equipment

Voltage Ratings Input/Output

Know the voltage rating of the surplus electrical product as well as the voltage rating of your power sources.  This will determine if the equipment is suitable for your application.  Incorrect voltage ratings risk short circuiting, arching, and electrical fires.

Continuous Current Rating

The continuous current rating will allow you to know if the device will be able to perform properly in varying environments.  This is listed as Amperes.  They represent the continuous current that can be carried when used in the temperatures it is calibrated for.

Current Rating, Short-Circuit

Short-circuit current rating, SCCR, is a current rating that defines the maximum short-circuit current the product can safely handle.  Individual SCCR components for the electrical assembly are calculated to determine the SSCR for the entire electrical panel.

Electrical Current Frequency

Pay attention to the current frequency at which equipment or breakers are designed to operate properly.  The electrical current frequency determines the highest current a device can handle operating at without issue.

Don’t compromise the quality of surplus equipment by purchasing from a less than a reputable electrical component supplier.  At J & P Electrical, we assure quality and competitive pricing.  Contact us today to discuss your needs.

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electrical company that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We offer a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus ducts, panel switches, and transformers. Services include asset management, product reconditioning, and electrical products. More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com

The Difference Between Used and Refurbished

One way to save a lot of money is to seek out refurbished tech items, electronics and electrical components when looking into making purchases.  It is important to remember that there is a difference between buying a used product and one that is refurbished.  Both can save you a lot of money however there are actually numerous differences that make refurbished better than used.

One of the first differences between used and refurbished items is the warranty.  All components that have gone through the refurbishing process come with a limited warranty of some kind.  When purchasing a used item however, it is rare for the item to be sold with any type of warranty.  Used items are usually bought and sold as is.

When it comes to the physical condition between used and refurbished items there is also a huge difference.  Refurbished items, especially electrical components, are supposed to look as close to the original as possible.  When something is refurbished it has been taken apart, cleaned, parts replaced and put back together in like new condition whereas used items are sold as is and are potentially worn.

Vendors rarely sell used items.  If you are purchasing an item from an OEM it is most often a true refurbished product. They will offer a full warranty on the item as if it was knew because essentially the process of refurbishing is making a like new product.  Used items will often be sold through third party vendors who label them as refurbished.  An item is unlikely to be a true refurbished product if being sold without a warranty or the description states the item is being sold as is.

When a product is refurbished or sold through an OEM is will come with customer service support.  When you purchase a used item you are not guaranteed to have any support services.  It is bought as is, buyer beware.  There are more guarantees when it comes to purchasing components that are refurbished.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, especially when purchasing electrical components for manufacturing equipment or for your home then the way to go is refurbished.  Another good thing about buying refurbished components is that you can usually find components for older machinery often even the most obsolete of machines.  Where new components are no longer available and used components would be in like shape to what you are replacing, refurbishing gives you a like new way to keep your machines running properly.

Challenges Involving Aging Equipment

Utility companies continue to face challenges involving future outlook, governmental regulations all while providing safe, secure, reliable and reasonably cost electricity to consumers.  Aging equipment used in the distribution of electricity is faced with a unique set of challenges including: population growth, technological advancements, personnel reductions and becoming obsolete.

Proper reinvestment strategies need to be in place to facilitate the challenges that are faced in making sure that equipment remains effective for the increasing consumer demands.  Operation and maintenance budgets should consider creating a comprehensive plan involving repairing, refurbishing and replacing equipment as it progresses through its life cycle.

Each piece of equipment used in the distribution of electricity deteriorates at its own pace.   Strategic planning needs to be put in place considering where the current equipment in place is within its own life cycle.    For instance, a piece that is fairly new may only need to be budgeted for general maintenance where as mid life cycle equipment should include budgeting for refurbished parts and labor to repair it.  While pieces at the end or nearing the end should budget for complete replacement or refurbishment.

Electrical distribution performed with underperforming, unreliable or faulty equipment puts the entire operation and distribution process at risk.  Without a detailed maintenance plan in place, in regards to continued equipment care companies risk employee safety, expense equipment damage, untimely equipment repairs or replacements and/or facility downtime.

Facilities of all sizes, including electrical utility companies must detail for their facility staff an action plan assessing and monitoring current equipment performance.  A thorough proposal must include a plan that takes into consideration modifications and corrective actions.

The INPO, Institute of Nuclear Power Operations, set in place a structure to help ensure equipment dependability.  This is known as AP-913.  Six major areas involving equipment consistency create the AP-913 including:

1)      Essential Component Identification

2)      Performance Monitoring

3)      Remedial Actions

4)      Continued Equipment Consistency Development

5)      Life Cycle Management and Long Term Planning

6)      Preventative Maintenance Implementation

Many companies, not just electrical utility companies, are putting actions in place to follow AP-913.  It is a common belief that predictions can be made by analyzing historical data kept on manufacturing equipment.  Using this information can help companies gather information on when to perform general maintenance.  Predictions help prevent equipment failure and downtime as well.  If certain parts fail during the same time frame in the equipments life cycle companies can decide ahead of time the best course of action to provide minimal downtime.   Should the part that fails be sent in to be refurbished, should it be replaced with a new surplus or refurbished component or should the equipment be replaced all together.

Equipment replacement is usually a last resort because it tends to be cost prohibitive.  Repairing equipment is most often the likely option.  Certain equipment, because of new technology can become obsolete.  If this dies occur new surplus parts are difficult to find. Refurbished electrical components help conquer this dilemma.

With proper planning and systems in place companies will be able to minimize the impact of equipment failure.  Proper maintenance and preventative repairs are a huge element in keeping companies properly functioning while operating within the given budget.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Four Important Reasons To Purchase Refurbished Equipment and Parts

Buying new surplus, replacement parts and equipment is a necessary part of running a business.  It is a process that without proper preparation can be stressful, expensive and time consuming.  It is important to plan for equipment failure and the need for replacement parts sooner than later.  This will ensure that when there is equipment failure within your facility that you know where to turn to find exactly what you are looking for.  It is a good idea to look for refurbished and reconditioned equipment and parts.  Here’s why!

Cost Savings: Buying refurbished and reconditioned parts and equipment allow you to save money over having to buy new surplus.  Depending on the equipment needed, parts desired, vendor, how fast you need it and if it needs to be installed it is not uncommon to say upwards of between thirty to fifty percent off the cost of new.  The same product, the same result all at a fraction of the cost.

More Bang For Your Buck: When you purchase used, refurbished, or reconditioned equipment and parts you will find that you can often purchase a name brand piece of equipment at a lower cost.  It is the same concept as when you are purchasing clothes from a thrift shop.  The same name brand pants that would cost you one hundred dollars at the mall would cost a fraction of that when purchased at a resale shop. Those hundred dollar jeans may only cost you around forty bucks but you get the same exact thing.

Dependability: When you buy products that are reconditioned or refurbished you are purchasing a piece of equipment or part that has already had the bugs worked out.  Depending on the electrical component company that you work with the testing process is more rigorous then that of new surplus.

Environmental Sustainability: Buying refurbished and reconditioned parts and equipment allow you to do your part to sustain the health of our environment.  Buying used products that have been made new again reduces equipment waste that fills up landfills and incinerators.  Purchasing refurbished and reconditioned equates to recycling.  The benefits of recycling are plentiful.  In working to sustain the environment you conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse emissions all while save energy and sustaining the environment for future generations.

There are many reasons to choose refurbished electrical components and reconditioned equipment over more costly, brand new equipments and parts.  Research a reputablereconditioned electrical part company to work with.  Establish a relationship with them to ensure their assistance when you are in a bind with equipment failure and in need of an immediate replacement part or piece of equipment.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Benefits of Purchasing Refurbished Electrical Equipment and Parts

Perhaps one of the largest benefits of purchasing refurbished electrical components comes from the savings to individuals and business owners alike.  No matter the undertaking, be it a repair to a home appliance or industrial-grade breaker, it is in your best interest to look for the quality and cost savings in refurbished electrical components.  No matter what electrical project you take on the same rules apply; look for quality components at inexpensive rates.

No matter if you are repairing appliances within your home or industrial grade equipment it pays to find the most inexpensive, efficient product at the lowest cost to ensure a complete solution to the project at hand.  Refurbished products are the most suitable options in most circumstances involving both commercial and residential users.

Used and refurbished electrical component suppliers have been a popular resource for years.  Buyers prefer to purchase these types of electrical components not only because of cost efficiency, quality and availability to options that are often older and harder to find.

Cost Savings: Everyone is looking to buy electrical components that will get the job done without costing an arm and a leg.  Brand new parts may seem ideal but when looking at the life span and cost many find that for a real cost savings refurbished components add as much life to your equipment.

High Quality: Even if a part is new it doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed to receive a high quality component.  Refurbished products go through a rigorous reconditioning process and are tested to meet and often exceed manufacturers UL certifications.

Availability: This is one of the reasons that the sale for refurbished electrical components has risen so much in recent years.  Industrial equipment is built to last.  Often times it is difficult to find suppliers that have new parts in stock for older equipment.  It is not cost effective to always upgrade a large piece of equipment and often unnecessary as the life span of the piece is far from reaching its peak.  Reconditioned electrical parts come in clutch when you find that new parts are obsolete.

Options:  When equipment goes down companies lose money.  No one wants to be in the middle of product and unable to fix their electrical equipment.  With refurbished components, users have a plethora of options at their finger tips within the refurbished electrical component industry.  Many reconditioned component suppliers will have in stock or assist you in find the part you need, at a reasonable price with immediate availability.

Companies save time and money when purchasing quality industrial electrical components that are refurbished.  At J&P Electrical Company, we sell a wide range of industrial electrical components from all major manufacturers, including bus plugs, bus duct, panel switches, disconnects, transformers, fuses, circuit breakers and more. We have two large warehouses that hold over 20,000 sq feet of new, used and obsolete electrical equipment.  We are sure to have in stock the product you need when you need it.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Information On Electrical Panels

Every home and business has one.  A mysterious gray box inset in a wall, usually in a basement, garage or laundry room, that controls the electricity flow.  The electrical panel that is contained within the puzzling gray box is a major electrical component that many of us will have to learn to operate to ensure the electricity in our homes and business’s stays operational.

The insides of the box are important to even those whom are unfamiliar with the world of electrical components.  When the panel is opened what you initially see is a single circuit breaker that is displayed as two columns.  Above these columns a large switch called the main switch can be seen.  The main switch controls the electrical current for the entire home while the smaller switches within the two columns are responsible for electricity in certain locations in the home or business.

Individual breakers control the electrical current to the outlets in your home.  Each one allows only a set amount of current to flow through that unparticular current at any one given time.  When a current that is larger than what the circuit can handle is pushed through the breaker will surge cutting off all power to the outlet.

A perfect example of this that is witnessed on a daily basis is within a teenage girl’s bathroom.  Picture an outlet loaded with a blow dryer, electric tooth brush, hair straighter and magnified mirror.  When all of these appliances try to pull power at the same time the circuit will become overloaded.  At this point the breaker will surge and power will no longer be received through the outlet.

To remedy the situation the electrical current needed will have to be downsized by unplugging the overloaded outlet.  Within a bathroom space the current is often exceeded.  In most residential settings outlets with built in circuit breakers will be installed.  This allows homeowners the convenience of resetting the breaker right there and then after the overload is stopped.  If a circuit in a bedroom or living room surges the homeowner will most likely need to locate the panel and switch the circuit breaker in question back on.  This process is fairly simple and a blown circuit is easily identifiable as the switch will be a different color than the switches that have not surged.

Circuit breakers are designed to surge as a safety feature against overloaded electrical outlets.  They protect your home and business against damage that can be caused when a flow of current is present that is not able to be handled by the circuit.  Without the protection of a circuit breaker problems that arise from an overabundance in electrical current, such as fires, could occur.  When the current level exceeds the breaker the breaker fails and the system is working as it needs to.

The main switch within the panel is to control the electrical current throughout the entire home.  Homeowners may find themselves tripping the switch in cases of flooding or other emergency weather situations.  Flipping the main switch cuts power to the entire house protecting appliances and heating and cooling systems from surges caused by lighting.  Large surges, all at one time, as seen in lighting strikes can cause damage beyond repair to large appliances and systems within the space.  It is better to cease all electrical current in these situations to avoid that possibility within your home or business by switching the main circuit breaker into the off position.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Power Outage Delays Solved With Generator Installation

Does your business experience power outages on a regular basis?  Do you find yourself having to shut down operations because of power failures?  If this is the case in your business no matter how big or small you are it is important that you install a permanent generator to restore the power within seconds of an outage to prevent further business loss. 

If you don’t wish to install a permanent solution a temporary generator can be installed to assist during a power outage.  Power outages are highly inconvenient and can cause major profit loss.  It is important to have either a permanent or temporary generator in place to restore power.  A temporary solution should be simple and hassle free to install when the power is interrupted. 

When you are looking into either a temporary or permanent generator there are a few things to consider.  First determine what size load the generator will need to sustain in order to operate business at a satisfactory level.  If full capacity is desired you will need to purchase a larger generator over if you can just run a few functions to keep the business up and running.  What length cable will you need to purchase to run from the load to the generator?  Which critical loads within the business need to be restored to run efficiently?  Hire a professional electrician to install the temporary or permanent power option into the building’s electrical service.

The solution of a temporary generator is a quick and easy way to restore power to the electrical distribution system within your business.  With the installation of a transfer switch and a generator quick connect tab box your business can be up and running within ten minutes of the arrival of a portable generator.  This process allows for a safe transfer between standard and standby power sources.  It is important to keep your business functioning fully and this can be done with the installation of a temporary generator, transfer switch and quick connect tap box.  When there is a loss of power a system that allows for a fully resorted power system and your business can continue to run as usual.

If your business does not have a proper disaster recovery plan in place it is essential that you begin this process with the installation of a power back up. Even if you choose not to install a permanent generator an incident plan should be in place to ensure that the businesses day to day processes can continue.   Loss of power results in the loss of electricity.  Without electricity you are in unable to save data, preserve perishable items, ensure security or communication systems.  It is essential to operate any business that a backup solution to restore power is in place and easy to access when an emergency situation arises.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Decreasing Energy Usage Within Your Home

As a homeowner we often use an extreme amount of energy without even considering where it is all going to.  In this article we will look into the ways in which we use energy throughout our homes on a daily basis and how you may be able to address the largest areas of waste within your home.

Appliances and electrical components that use a lot of power are often referred to as electrical vampires.  These appliances rack up high energy bills not only when they are being used but as they are plugged in and sit waiting to be used.  This wastes energy and increases home energy bills.  To avoid the extra expense consider using power savers on the following pieces of electrical equipment within your home.

Video Game Consoles

Who doesn’t enjoy unwinding at the end of the day with a game shared with the family on a video console?  Although video game consoles are a great way to unwind they are a huge draw on the energy within your home.  If the console is plugged in it is drawing energy.  So even if you are not enjoying the console it is using energy.  Even when a console is turned off if it plugged in it is expending approximately one watt of energy.

Laptop Computers

It is almost impossible to believe but a laptop uses more energy than a desktop computer.  Laptops have many different components that are running within together in one place.  This means that the system need additional energy over that off a desk top computer to function.  A desktop, on average, uses about three watts of energy whereas a laptop runs on about nine watts while it is turned off.  Consider though that a desktop also uses electricity to run speakers, monitors, scanners, modems and USB hubs.  When deciding which source is a better use of energy for your home consider the entire system as a whole and not each component separately.

Cable Boxes

Cable boxes may seem completely innocent as they sit on top of the television console waiting to be used however they are one of the worst electrical component offenders when it comes to energy usage in your home.  When off, on average a cable box uses about twenty eight watts of power.   While in use a cable box uses about thirty watts.

If you are concerned with the amount of energy that various electrical components are using while plugged in and turned off or turned on there is only one way to eliminate the issue and that is to unplug it.  As a homeowner you may be looking for a solution that does not require you to unplug and plug in appliances as they are used within the home.  In this case an easy, straightforward solution is the addition of power strips.  A power strip in the off position only uses about a single watt of electricity which is far less than any of the above components.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Key Factors In Preventative Maintenance Programs

There are so many important factors to consider when working within a manufacturing setting.  One of the most important aspects arguably is preventative maintenance.  When electrical equipment doesn’t include a variety of moving components many industrial managers overlook machinery maintenance; this is however the incorrect thought process is.  All electrical equipment requires regular maintenance to be scheduled.  In fact when electrical systems lack moving parts they report a failure rate of up to three times more than systems with preventative maintenance programs in place.

When discussing the failures in electrical distribution it is important to remember the two culprits responsible for about half of all failures.  Loose wiring and part connections as well as exposure to moisture are both major issues that cause equipment failure.  Both issues can be managed with a comprehensive electrical preventative maintenance program in place.

There are five key factors that are relevant when introducing such a program to your team and facility.  An established electrical maintenance program can benefit a manufacturing facility in a number of ways including increased employee safety, increased production, decreased down time, increased customer service and so many more benefits that come with equipment throughout the facility running as expected.

Important Preventative Maintenance Factors

• Employees Qualified to Oversee and Execute your Preventative Maintenance Program

It is important to hire or train employees that are in charge of the preventative program.  Each piece of equipment requires specific testing and maintenance.  Employees should be thoroughly trained to ensure electrical safety practices and procedures are followed.

• Regularly Scheduled Equipment Maintenance

It is crucial that components in machinery are inspected, tested and serviced on a regular basis.  With regular record keeping manufacturers will be able to develop a detailed plan based on component failure.  This will allow for a detailed maintenance program to be established.

• Informed Decisions on Electrical Component Replacement

The only way that informed decisions can be made is with proper information and understanding of the problem that exists.   This requires education and information on the current electrical systems currently in place.  Employees responsible for preventative maintenance should have access to testing reports and educational material.

• Maintenance Performance

There does come a time that schedule performance will require a machine to be shut down.  The nice thing about doing it in this manner, rather than waiting for it to break is that you can control the timing.   Scheduled outages can be done when production is low during holiday breaks or decreased production.

• Clear Concise Methods in Record Keeping

In order to track the work that is done and the timing of break downs a plan can be established to prevent equipment failure during peak manufacturing times.  Work should be performed and electrical components replaced when needed.  Tracking the results will lead to identifying problem areas so that they can be corrected before the problem occurs.

Preventative maintenance is a cost effective way that improves the efficiency of both employees and equipment.  Neglecting electrical machinery is costly.  A program that is in place to establish guidelines on maintenance helps with this.

JP Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

The Purpose of Bus Ducts and Bus Plugs

When it comes to electrical equipment companies many of us non-electricians are at a loss as to exactly what it is that they do or sell.  Electrical equipment and components are a mystery to those of us who do not work with them.  Entering a manufacturing facility is overwhelming to most industrial spectators.

There are a variety of different sized pieces of equipment splayed across a large room.  Each piece of equipment offers its own purpose; most involve manufacturing a product that is used to create, package or in some way bring something new into the world.   There are a variety of industrial manufacturers using electrical equipment.  With each industry has a specific need in regards to equipment and replacement components that is needs to have available to ensure that production never is delayed, stalled or brought to a complete halt.  Electrical equipment is the backbone to many industrial manufactures.  Without reliable equipment or replacement components readily available production will stop thus resulting in delayed manufacturing, decreased employee production and a loss of profit.

In the next few installments we will begin to look at new surplus and reconditioned electrical equipment and components to bring a better understanding to exactly what this intriguing industry is all about.   Today we will discuss bus ducts and bus plugs and the impact they have within large industrial manufacturing plants.

In most industrial settings electrical power is not distributed the same as it is in residential and commercial settings.  In these settings power is distributed through hardwiring within the walls throughout the building.   This allows electricity to flow through the building distributing similar voltage to rooms throughout the building this differs from industrial manufacturing settings where the electricity needs to be distributed differently throughout the building.

Electricity in industrial manufacturing facilities needs to be directed to where it is needed.  In these large open industrial settings equipment needs to be able to be moved about and the electricity needs to be designed to allow for this freedom.  There are not many closed walls or permanent structures to allow electricity to be distributed throughout the plant; this is where bus ducts and bus plugs are useful.

Bus ducts are in a sense, an extension cord.  Each section of the bus duct is put together and run along the ceiling to complete a super highway of industrial power throughout the plant.  Bus plugs complete the entire electrical super system allowing power to get from the bus duct system to the equipment below in need of power.

Bus plugs are similar to the plugs on the ends of appliances throughout our homes that are used on a regular basis.  The bus plug connects a section of the bus duct to the equipment below that is in need of power.  Bus plugs can be used for anything from lighting to heavy machinery.  This system is used in industrial settings because it offers flexibility and ease of use.  There is no hardwiring within the building and therefore the manufacturing floor can be rearranged as needed.  If new equipment is introduced or a piece is taken out, the power system can also adjust.

It is our hope that this article gives readers a basic understanding of this unique electrical component as well as how and why it is used throughout industrial manufacturing settings.  If you are in need of replacement bus plugs or new surplus bus ducts for your current system look no further than the experts at J & P Electrical Company, LLC located out of Warren, MI at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com/.

The Purpose of Bus Ducts and Bus Plugs

When it comes to electrical equipment companies many of us non-electricians are at a loss as to exactly what it is that they do or sell.  Electrical equipment and components are a mystery to those of us who do not work with them.  Entering a manufacturing facility is overwhelming to most industrial spectators.

There are a variety of different sized pieces of equipment splayed across a large room.  Each piece of equipment offers its own purpose; most involve manufacturing a product that is used to create, package or in some way bring something new into the world.   There are a variety of industrial manufacturers using electrical equipment.  With each industry has a specific need in regards to equipment and replacement components that is needs to have available to ensure that production never is delayed, stalled or brought to a complete halt.  Electrical equipment is the backbone to many industrial manufactures.  Without reliable equipment or replacement components readily available production will stop thus resulting in delayed manufacturing, decreased employee production and a loss of profit.

In the next few installments we will begin to look at new surplus and reconditioned electrical equipment and components to bring a better understanding to exactly what this intriguing industry is all about.   Today we will discuss bus ducts and bus plugs and the impact they have within large industrial manufacturing plants.

In most industrial settings electrical power is not distributed the same as it is in residential and commercial settings.  In these settings power is distributed through hardwiring within the walls throughout the building.   This allows electricity to flow through the building distributing similar voltage to rooms throughout the building this differs from industrial manufacturing settings where the electricity needs to be distributed differently throughout the building.

Electricity in industrial manufacturing facilities needs to be directed to where it is needed.  In these large open industrial settings equipment needs to be able to be moved about and the electricity needs to be designed to allow for this freedom.  There are not many closed walls or permanent structures to allow electricity to be distributed throughout the plant; this is where bus ducts and bus plugs are useful.

Bus ducts are in a sense, an extension cord.  Each section of the bus duct is put together and run along the ceiling to complete a super highway of industrial power throughout the plant.  Bus plugs complete the entire electrical super system allowing power to get from the bus duct system to the equipment below in need of power.

Bus plugs are similar to the plugs on the ends of appliances throughout our homes that are used on a regular basis.  The bus plug connects a section of the bus duct to the equipment below that is in need of power.  Bus plugs can be used for anything from lighting to heavy machinery.  This system is used in industrial settings because it offers flexibility and ease of use.  There is no hardwiring within the building and therefore the manufacturing floor can be rearranged as needed.  If new equipment is introduced or a piece is taken out, the power system can also adjust.

It is our hope that this article gives readers a basic understanding of this unique electrical component as well as how and why it is used throughout industrial manufacturing settings.  If you are in need of replacement bus plugs or new surplus bus ducts for your current system look no further than the experts at J & P Electrical Company, LLC located out of Warren, MI at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com/.

Myths About The Refurbished Electrical Component Industry

There are plenty of myths surrounding the industry of refurbished electrical components.  Different people have varying opinions on when to use them and how to ensure that they are safe and reliable.  The truth is that reconditioned electrical components are every bit as good as new products.  In fact some may even say better because of the rigorous testing and stringent standards the electrical parts are put through before they can be sold. 

Many companies that sell quality refurbished electrical parts completely disassemble the piece and clean and inspect each part thoroughly.  From there the parts are painted with the highest quality of paint, usually acrylic enamel, which is specifically chosen because of its durability.  After this is complete the electrical piece is reassembled and tested.  This is true of reconditioned breakers as well.  In order to know when and how to use electrical reconditioned breakers we shall look into the truths of refurbished breakers.

The goal when purchasing and using any reconditioned electrical product, including retrofitted circuit breakers it is important that you have complete confidence in their ability to perform.  Just as new electrical components do, reconditioned electrical parts decrease the number of unplanned outages experienced while keeping personnel safe.  The one main difference between refurbished and new electrical parts is the cost associated with them.  It makes sense that anytime you are replacing used, worn out components with new ones the manufacturing equipment will be safer and more reliable.

The main myth is that you are taking a risk to save your company a few bucks; in fact the old adage is without risk there is no reward, right?  This is not the truth when choosing refurbished over new in manufacturing.  In fact choosing high-quality reconditioned breakers and more can not only save you money but prove to outlast their new counterparts. 

Choose to work with a company that has a reputation of providing high quality new and quality reconditioned components.  Not all electrical company’s and suppliers are of the same quality.  Look for a company that is interested in a number of variations of the industry from asset recovery, product reconditioning and the sale of new electrical components.

To ensure that you are purchasing a quality reconditioned power breakers ask about the company’s refurbishing policies.  A power breaker should only be sold as a quality refurbished product if the supplier has cleaned, analyzed, reassembled, tested and only sold after passing a final inspection and rigid testing. 

The pricing for refurbished parts can vary between companies.  Some reconditioned electrical part suppliers will loan you a good reconditioned part, such as a power breaker, while they actually take yours in and recondition it.  This leaves you with a working breaker so that there is no down time on your equipment and you will have a new, reconditioned part within a few days or weeks depending on the company’s ability to turn products around.

The product is not only cleaned and reassembled; the latest technology is installed within the component adding to the integrity of the reconditioned product.  You will be saving your company time, money and improving the quality of the machines in which employees are working with. 

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Expelling the Myths Surrounding Refurbished Electrical Components

There are a variety of myths surrounding the refurbished, reconditioning electrical component business.  With every myth comes an explanation that helps put it to rest or one that brings it to light.  This article will lie to rest some of the most prevalent myths within the electrical component industry.

Myth VS Reality within the Reconditioned Electrical Component Industry

• Reconditioned electrical equipment is often counterfeit: Surplus and counterfeit electrical parts are part of the gray market within the electrical equipment industry and should not be lumped together with legitimate suppliers of quality refurbished, reconditioned electrical components.  This is something that many original equipment manufacturers and licensed distributors like to lead industry users to believe in order to ensure they are the only sought after suppliers of electrical components. 

The truth is that most reconditioned electrical components are used to continue running equipment that is older and often outdated, most not supported by the original manufacturer anymore.  To avoid buying counterfeit parts understand that most counterfeits parts are sold to replace components on new electrical equipment.  Surplus equipment refers to new unused electrical equipment and this is where counterfeiting is found most often.  To avoid counterfeit products customers should note that most reconditioned products are for older model equipment.

• Refurbished electrical equipment is not as safe to use as new: This is a myth that can be completely busted by the procedure that is in place by both the electrical original equipment manufacturers reconditioning service centers and by the electrical industry at large. With the required multiple step process to ensure the refurbished product performs to the original specifications it is guaranteed that the reconditioned part will work as safely as a new surplus product.

 Steps in Refurbishing Electrical Equipment

• Initial testing is conducted
• Products are disassembled, inspected and cleaned
• Components are replaced by worn & aging components
• Products are reassembled
• Performance testing and component verification is performed
• Documentation is presented and submitted
• Certifications are done to state that the equipment may be even safer than the original

In fact many refurbished electrical components are safer than new original manufactured equipment because it is individually tested.  OEMs are not required to test each product yet are only required to perform a batch test on the electrical components that are produced.           

As we continue in this installment on myths verse the realities of refurbished electrical components we will look into the following myths and dispel them. 

• Reconditioned electrical equipment is lower quality and less reliable then a new product
• Refurbished electrical equipment is less expensive to buy but more expensive to operate
• Reconditioned electrical equipment increases safety and liability concerns
• Only original equipment manufacturers can properly recondition electrical components
• Refurbishing electrical equipment invalidates the Underwriter Laboratories Seal

We will in fact prove it is true that not all myths are created equal; in fact many myths make for really bad business decisions. 

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

The Mystery Of Electrical Components Continued

Many of the electrical components we use on a daily basis in our homes and businesses are a mystery to us.  Not many people are concerned with their electrical systems or those electrical systems that supply heat, electricity and such until they have failed.  Once they stop functioning and our lives are put on hold or business is delayed we finally become concerned with all the inner workings of the equipment.  In a previous installment we reviewed electricity its flow along with three main electrical components: disconnect switches, main breakers and fuse panels.  In this installment on the mysteries of electrical equipment we will examine branch circuits, switches, outlets and wiring.

Wiring: In every home you will find various wires and cables.  The three main options in wiring within a home consist of Romex, bx cable or wiring encased within conduit. Romex is the name of a type of plastic insulated wiring that is comprised of non-metallic sheath.  This is normally the wiring that is used in dry, protected areas such as stud walls and side joists.  It is the wiring used when there is no risk of mechanical damage or subjected to excessive heat.  Bx cable is also known as armored cable.  This cable encases wires using aluminum or flexible steel sheaths that are semi resistant to damage.  The safest method of wiring when it comes to durability is single strands of conductor wiring pulled through a conduit.  These three types or wiring are used to carry the electrical current from the main panel to the device needing it.  It is crucial that the wiring that is installed is properly sized for the load requirements that are anticipated. 

Outlets:  Electrical outlets are used to plug in portable electrical devices.  An outlet consists of a hot feed, a neutral and aground.  Special outlets should be installed in areas with moisture present as normal grade home outlets are not equipped to handle getting wet.  Outlets are found throughout homes are usually places strategically in consideration of a rooms layout and where there appears to be a need to electricity.

Switches:  A switch is similar to an electrical outlet in that they are placed in areas throughout the home.  They provide electricity to devices that are stationary such as lights and fans.  The switch will turn the devices on and off.  Switches come in single-pole, three-way, four-way and dimmer.  The purpose of the different switches is to offer a variant to the flow of current that goes to the lights and fans within the home.

Branch Circuit:  In a home there is a main circuit breaker that has several smaller branch circuits that is feeds electrical current into.  A branch circuit feeds electricity into breakers to power switches and outlets.  Most circuits can be either 120 volts or 240 volts.  A 120 volt circuit requires a single pole breaker and only uses one phase of electricity.  This is a light circuit meant to power between 15 and 20 amps. It is good for outlets and switches.  A 240 volt circuit uses a two pole breaker and uses both phases of the circuit.  A 240 volt circuit will power larger appliances such as electric ranges, electric stoves, central air units or hot tubs.  The appliance will not get electricity unless both phases are working.  This circuit also requires a two-pole 30 amp breaker.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Preventive Electrical Maintenance For The Winter Season

The winter season is upon the north.  Many of us are starting to get buried under piles of snow and are soon to be locked inside hoping for a break in the freezing temperatures.  It is the perfect time to make sure that all electrical systems have been inspected for potential electrical component problems.  Proper maintenance and regular upkeep on the industrial electrical systems in your home will prevent having to find emergency maintenance service when temperatures are below freezing when being without heat or electricity is dire.  Proper preventative maintenance on electrical systems can prevent a disaster later on.

Why should proper preventative maintenance on electrical systems be performed?

The power requirements, during the winter months, are far greater than any other time of the year.  There is a constant struggle to keep industrial buildings warm in order to prevent electrical systems used in the operation of the business running efficiently.  All the while industrial facility’s and plant managers are looking to improve their efforts to lower power consumption and reduce expenses overall.  Programmable logic controllers should be employed by industrial companies to be trained and specialized in the equipment used throughout the facility. 

With the above goals in mind there are a variety of issues, as listed below, that can be prevented with proper electrical preventative maintenance. 

• Circumvent electrical shorts that can lead to fires. When a current is overloaded electrical short circuits can occur. This could potentially lead to starting an electrical fire.  To avoid this remove any wires that have become exposed.  It is also important that load imbalances are avoided.  Excessive heat buildup, arcing and explosions can occur.
• Detect electrical components that are running hot or not running according to the specifications stated. Before an electrical component fails it will most likely start to run hot.  Check running components such as transformers, motors, bearings and wires.  If it noted that they are running warmer than specified it is time to think about preventative replacement.  Refurbished electrical components can be purchased at a discount to allow industrial equipment to keep running efficiently without the expense of new components or replacement equipment.
• Check for any loose connections. A loose connection on any piece of equipment can lead to fluctuations in power causing erratic operations and uneven power distribution between the wires.

Preventative maintenance should be a full time position that is filled by a trained specialist.  This one position can save the company both time and money.  With regular equipment maintenance companies are able to avoid unplanned downtime.  This leads to more regular production, better customer services and is cost effective.  Buying new equipment, down time, decreased production and hiring emergency repair services are all incredibly costly for any company.  Simple, regularly scheduled maintenance along with the use of refurbished electrical components allow for smooth operation within manufacturing.  

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.