Industry News
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NFPA issues alert on residential fire sprinkler systems
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) issued a safety alert related to buildings equipped with residential fire sprinkler systems containing antifreeze solutions. Following a recent fatal fire incident which prompted a research study and a series of fire tests, there has been concern raised over the potential for the antifreeze solution in the residential fire sprinkler system to ignite in certain fire situations.
According to the NFPA, any system that contains antifreeze should have the antifreeze drained from the system and replaced with water. NFPA is recommending that those who are responsible for a residential occupancy with a fire sprinkler system should have a fire sprinkler contractor test their system for antifreeze. NFPA also advises that all residential fire sprinkler systems currently being installed should avoid designing or installing a system that would require antifreeze.
Antifreeze systems were first recognized and approved for use in residential occupancies in the 1989 edition of the NFPA fire sprinkler installation standards. More information regarding NFPA’s safety alert on antifreeze in residential fire sprinklers or the list of recommended action to take for systems containing antifreeze can be found at www.nfpa.org/antifreeze. If you believe this affects you, contact your local building or fire official for more information.
EPA launches national water conservation campaign/EPA’s WaterSense program helps consumers save money and water
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) WaterSense program today is kicking off its national “We’re for Water” campaign to encourage Americans to make simple choices that save water. The program, in collaboration with its partner, American Water, will spread the word about saving water by traveling cross-country, stopping at national landmarks and educating consumers about WaterSense labeled products. WaterSense products use about 20 percent less water than standard models.
“Whether by replacing an old, inefficient plumbing fixture with a WaterSense labeled product or adopting more water-efficient behaviors, together we can help save water for future generations,” said Peter Silva, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Water. “WaterSense offers consumers simple tips that can help the environment and keep money in their pockets.”
ITT Bell & Gossett offer hydronic balancing solutions bulletin
ITT has published a new bulletin that provides a comprehensive summary of its Bell Gossett brand solutions for hydronic balancing. Included in the bulletin is a Balancing System Selection Guide, which allows users to identify the valves most suitable for their specific projects from manual valves to field adjustable, automatic temperature control valves.
The new bulletin (A-509) also helps users select the most efficient balancing solutions for reducing energy and operating costs while increasing comfort. The six categories of balancing valves covered in the bulletin include: • OPTIFLOTM (PICV) – field adjustable control valve • ULTRASET – externally field adjustable automatic valve • CIRCUIT SENTRY – automatically maintains set flow rate • CIRCUIT SENTRY LOW FLOW – internally field adjustable automatic • CIRCUIT SETTER PLUS – externally field adjustable manual • VENTURI BALL/BUTTERFLY VALVE – standard valve providing venture flow accuracy Also included in the bulletin is detailed information on Bell Gossett Coil Kits, including: • Coil Supply Line Options • Union ended ball valve/Y-strainer UBY UBL) • Union ended ball valve (UBV) • Coil Return Line Options • Union Accessory (Model UA) • Temperature Control Valves • Bypass Control Valve Options • Hose Kit Assemblies For more information, contact your local Bell Gossett Representative or visit www.balancevalves.com.
New Products
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AERCO's Smart Plate Water Heater
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TempTAP™ thermostatic faucets Commercial and institutional ASSE 1070 listed TempTAP™ thermostatic faucets feature a powerful paraffin actuator, which controls both temperature and pressure. With TempTAP™ specifying lavatory tempering is easy because there is no need for a separate thermostatic valve under the sink. The tempering is done inside the faucet just inches from the user where it is most effective. Powers, a Watts Water Technologies Co. |
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Structural sway brace attachment Universal Sway Brace Attachment permits a secure, non-friction connection without drilling or welding to structural members. The Fig. 828’s unique patented design allows for attachment of seismic bracing to wide flange beams, including I-beam, open web, welded steel trusses and other structures up to 7/8-inch thick, with a maximum design load of 2,015 lbs. both along and across the beam. The one size, stable three-point attachment fits any beam width. TOLCO engineered break-off bolts allow for visual verification of proper installation torque. TOLCO. |
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Trench drains Company offers a broad selection of trench drains for your job site requirements. The Smith/ACO Polymer Concrete and Fiberglass trench drain series and the Enviro-Flo® Polypropylene trench drain series can be utilized to improve drainage flow covering a variety of commercial applications. An assortment of grates and covers are available, which allows architects and designers to enhance the appearance of the projects. Jay R. Smith Mfg. Co. |