Archive for the ‘Services’ Category

The Role of Refrigeration Controls in Food Safety Compliance

Tuesday, February 11th, 2025

Commercial and industrial food manufacturing, handling, and storage requires strict compliance with FDA regulations. Controlling the environment and processes in which food is handled is critical in maintaining compliance as well as preventing spoilage, contamination, and broader health hazards. The refrigeration controls within an industrial food manufacturing facility serve an important role in ensuring quality control and safety for employees and consumers who come in contact with the food. 

TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Maintaining consistent temperatures is one of the most important factors in ensuring food safety and quality within manufacturing and food storage facilities. Custom refrigeration controls enable greater control over the temperature systems, leading to consistency in temperature and in turn, reliably safe and high-quality products. 

Advanced features in Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls provide tools that can further track temperatures and system health. Leak detection, alarm notifications, and remote access capabilities allow operators to prevent issues and address concerns before they escalate. Technicians are also able to access the industrial refrigeration controls without needing to visit the facility, enabling a faster response time and more efficient troubleshooting. 

PREVENTING HEALTH HAZARDS

Outdated or poorly maintained refrigeration systems can lead to significant risks, including public health hazards and plant shutdowns. Well-maintained and operated refrigeration controls can help prevent concerns such as spoilage and contamination. If your system goes down unexpectedly, the risk for destroyed goods, lost capital, and extended plant shutdowns increases. By monitoring temperature fluctuations and equipment malfunctions, Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls make it easy to  maintain food safety compliance and maximize your facility’s uptime. 

PUTTING HEALTH, SAFETY, AND QUALITY FIRST

Upgrading refrigeration systems and controls can make all the difference in maintaining food safety compliance within your food manufacturing and storage facility. Modern systems such as Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls provide precise temperature management, leak detection, alarm notifications, and remote access, which preserve the integrity of perishable goods. Find greater control over your facility and partner with a team of refrigeration experts. Get in touch with Egan’s industrial refrigeration team to learn how you can integrate new controls in your facility. 

Frequently Asked Questions: NFPA 70B

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Maintain safety and functionality of electrical, electronic, and communication systems in your industrial and commercial facility with updated NFPA 70B guidelines. Staying in the know about NFAP 70B and National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements can keep your facility safe and in compliance.

What does NFPA 70B say?

The updated NFPA guidelines, published in 2023, include updated language, marking a shift from a manufacturer’s recommendation of maintenance to noting an Electrical Maintenance Plan (EMP) is a formal plan facilities shall have in place moving forward. This new verbiage focuses on preventing risks or injuries through regular equipment maintenance, personnel training, and accurate documentation. 

Who does NFPA 70B apply to? 

The electrical code outlines regulations for the systems and equipment in industrial facilities, plants, commercial buildings, and multi-family residential buildings. 

What equipment does 70B apply to? 

The guidelines cover a wide array of specific equipment and devices commonly found in commercial and industrial settings. This includes but is not limited to switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, motor control centers, busways, cables, and protective devices. While NFPA 70B does not include fabrication equipment, many of its components will have maintenance requirements. It is always recommended that thorough records of service and maintenance for individual equipment, including OEM build equipment, is kept to maintain NFPA 70B compliance.

What is the difference between standard and enforceable code?

A standard provides guidelines for safety and efficiency, while an enforceable code is backed by law and must be followed to ensure compliance. This distinction is crucial for maintaining electrical systems that meet safety standards and legal regulations. They are both written with “shall” language instead of “should” language, marking the shift from recommended to required. 

What happens if I am not in compliance?

Non-compliance with industry standards and electrical codes is a serious risk and hazard for property damage as well as people’s safety. In addition, OSHA can cite and fine facilities who are found to be non-compliant. 

Will 70B affect the design of projects, or just end users? 

Designs do not need to be considered “compliant” with 70B during the planning and drawing stages. However, it is in the best interest of the system designer and planning team to consider the implications of 70B requirements, as it can affect different aspects of the design, including overcurrent protection, arc flash risk, lock out points, de-engerization, and more. Without a 70B-focused system, problems can occur later with equipment performance and maintenance. 

Is condition-based maintenance required for NFPA 70B compliance?

Condition-based maintenance programs are not required within the codes, but can be used to meet requirements for interval-based maintenance if using predictive techniques. Electrical maintenance plans are required according to NFPA 70B, including equipment inspection, testing, monitoring, analysis, and service. Egan Company can help design a custom electrical maintenance plan for your facility and equipment that aligns with your service requirements and budget needs.

Are the new changes for NFPA 70B applied in National Electric Code (NEC) 2023?

The NEC 2023 edition outlines maintenance requirements, though they are non-mandatory to follow NFPA 70B. There is language included that sets 70B as the standard for electrical equipment maintenance, and it is highly recommended that the latest edition is followed when able. 

Do individual facilities get to decide which year of the NEC and 70B they comply with? 

While in some cases, facilities decide which year of the NEC they follow, the 2023 edition of NFPA 70B is the industry standard and should be adopted. Any previously published versions outlined recommended practices, whereas the 2023 edition shifts to required language. Egan recommends complying to the latest standards for all codes, or else risk safety hazards and liabilities.

What do electrical maintenance plans include? 

Partnering with Egan Company makes it easy to stay up to code with NFPA 70B requirements. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art 70B software to promote the ease of electrical maintenance for commercial equipment and facilities looking for custom service plans that meet their budgets while staying compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. 

Maintenance plans include:

  • Electrical Apparatus Testing & Infrared Scans
  • Electrical Maintenance Training
  • Arc Flash/Coordination Studies
  • Arc Risk Assessments
  • Electrically Safe Work Conditions
  • Documentation of Equipment and Service
  • Equipment and facility alerts
  • Maintenance tracking and record-keeping
  • Condition logging

Learn more about electrical maintenance plans and how Egan can partner with you to keep you compliant with NFPA 70B standards and other NEC guidelines.

A Look into Millwright Work

Monday, January 27th, 2025

When a facility needs to shut down equipment for maintenance, upgrades, or repairs, millwrights are able to step up and provide expertise. With extensive knowledge of machinery and heavy equipment, millwrights keep everything working properly at all stages for large-scale projects. The job of a millwright requires a blend of technical skill, precision, and a deep understanding of mechanical systems to ensure safety and quality on a job.

PROJECT RESPONSIBILITIES

During equipment shutdowns at manufacturing facilities, power plants, or industrial buildings, millwrights perform a variety of essential tasks to keep the project on schedule while minimizing any down time from the equipment being offline. Their work includes:

  • Machinery and heavy equipment installation: Millwrights are responsible for the precise installation of large equipment, ensuring it’s correctly aligned, set up, and securely in place.
  • Rigging and erecting: This involves safely moving and positioning heavy components using specialized equipment and techniques.
  • Plant relocation: If a facility relocates, millwrights dismantle, move, and reassemble machinery, ensuring that production can resume efficiently in the new location.
  • Inspections and maintenance: During shutdowns, millwrights will often inspect the equipment and perform any preventative maintenance required to extend the life of the machinery and ensure it is running with maximum efficiency.
  • Conveyor belt installation and maintenance: Miles of conveyor belts are often found in food grade factories, package fulfillment centers, and energy facilities. Egan’s millwrights install, repair, and maintain these systems on a regular basis.
  • Pump realignments: Regular pump and motor realignments keep equipment operating as designed.

KEEPING PROJECTS MOVING

In addition to these core tasks that are common on many jobsites, millwrights also oversee other key equipment and machinery responsibilities, including material handling and storage installation, conveyor systems, bridge and jib cranes, and pump alignment. Their work is not just about fixing things but also about optimizing equipment for peak performance.

Safety is paramount across all of Egan’s teams, and millwright work is no exception. With many potential hazards on a jobsite, planning is critical to ensure the work is completed properly and safely. As a multi-trades contractor, Egan Company is positioned to offer an integrated approach on projects, and our millwright capabilities are an example of the range of services we provide on any given jobsite. Learn more about Egan’s millwright services.

What is the Lifespan of a Commercial Fire Alarm System?

Friday, December 13th, 2024

A well-maintained commercial fire alarm system is vital for the safety and protection of lives and property. Recent technological advancements with fire alarm systems have improved overall performance, and have also made repairing legacy systems more difficult. While annual service trips and commercial fire alarm testing often fulfill safety checks and requirements, when the fire alarm & life safety systems in a facility become too old or the technology outdated, you’ll need to consider updating them.

HOW LONG DO COMMERCIAL FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS LAST?

The lifespan of a commercial fire alarm system typically ranges from 10 to 15 years. This can vary based on different factors, including the quality of the system, if the equipment has received regular maintenance over its lifespan, and technological advancements. By conducting regular system inspections and equipment maintenance on commercial fire alarms, your equipment can last longer and perform better. Egan’s local team of commercial fire alarm technicians in the Twin Cities and Rochester can help perform an inspection on your system and make a plan for necessary repairs and maintenance. 

KEEP YOUR FACILITY SAFE

The most important aspect of your building and your business is that everyone inside is safe. By keeping a pulse on your facility’s fire alarm & life safety systems, you can rest assured that occupants will be alerted and kept safe in case of an emergency. Whether you need an annual facility and equipment inspection, or if it’s been more than 10 years since you’ve replaced your commercial fire alarms, the local team at Egan Company can help. Our fire alarm team partners with you to determine the best course of action to keep your building’s systems in top shape and provide comfort and safety to everyone inside. Get in touch with Egan to schedule a fire alarm inspection or an audit of your existing system to learn about options for your facility.

Increase Energy Efficiency in Commercial Buildings

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Commercial buildings, retail spaces, and warehouses spend on average one-third of their operating costs on energy usage, including lighting, refrigeration, heating, cooling, and water heating. With new technology and building automation solutions, energy efficient initiatives can improve a building’s decarbonization, lower operating costs, and improve the overall environmental impact. Transitioning to energy efficient infrastructure is a strategic move that many businesses are implementing as they look ahead and prepare for the future.

INCORPORATE BUILDING AUTOMATION

Building automation systems (BAS) are one of the leading technologies in commercial energy efficiency initiatives. Integrating with smart technology, these systems enable easy monitoring and control of building functions, including lighting, heating, and cooling. The right BAS optimizes the energy efficiency within a facility, making adjustments based on internal and external conditions such as building occupancy, weather,  and time of day. 

energy efficiency

Building automation systems can be controlled from a singular point, even across multiple buildings, making them user-friendly and accessible for a variety of corporate campuses, schools, and retail spaces. Connecting to an automation system can improve the energy efficiency, operating costs, and comfort within your facility, which can result in long-term payoffs for your business.

UPGRADE LEGACY PNEUMATIC SYSTEMS

Buildings that haven’t switched their Automation systems from pneumatic to direct digital control (DDC) equipment have a real opportunity to increase their energy efficiency, improve total building operating costs, and increase the comfort of the facility. Outdated compressors require a lot of energy to run, and they are less reliable and precise in air handling than their digital counterparts. By converting to a new DDC system, buildings can see a significant improvement in air flow, comfort, maintenance, and operating costs all year round. 

ENERGY-EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGIES

Finally, upgrading to energy efficient technology and equipment can improve the total operating costs and energy efficiency of your building. Switching to LED lighting is an easy way to upgrade your commercial facility. Smart technology, including thermostats and energy monitoring systems, can enhance the maintenance of the property and provide a better experience for occupants. Based on local power companies and state availability, rebates are available for commercial facilities who integrate energy efficient lighting, HVAC, and other technologies. Contacting your local utility provider is the best way to learn what is available for your building. 

IMPROVE YOUR BUILDING’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Finding energy efficient solutions for your commercial property can help you keep your energy consumption and costs down, especially through extreme weather conditions that often occur in Minnesota. As a local electrical, mechanical, and building automation contractor and systems integrator in Champlin and Rochester, Minn., Egan Company understands the importance of keeping commercial buildings updated with new technologies and building automation systems. Whether you are looking for complete system upgrades, or need regular equipment and facility maintenance and service, our team can help. Let’s work together to create a more comfortable environment for your customers and employees, while improving your building’s operating costs with energy efficient solutions.

Are You Due to Upgrade Your Industrial Refrigeration Systems?

Thursday, October 24th, 2024

Maintaining the quality and value of manufactured and stored goods within industrial facilities and warehouses requires top technology and well-run systems. When an industrial refrigeration system becomes outdated, operators and building managers risk spoiling their products and falling behind. By inspecting and upgrading industrial refrigeration systems and controls, manufacturers and industrial warehouses can keep their operations under control and maximize efficiency. 

SIGNS OF OUTDATED REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

If a refrigeration control system uses obsolete parts, then fixing or replacing the components becomes increasingly difficult and costly. Older industrial refrigeration systems tend to require more energy to operate, which leads to higher energy costs and demands on the equipment. If you notice increased bills over time, consider upgrading the refrigeration system and controls with more energy efficient solutions. Additionally, more frequent maintenance and repairs on industrial refrigeration equipment tends to indicate you’re due for an upgrade. Updating the systems can prevent excessive costs down the line. 

BENEFITS OF UPGRADED REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

By investing in a new refrigeration control system, industrial warehouses and manufacturing facilities can enhance the efficiency and production of their operations. Modern refrigeration control systems can be integrated with the entire facility, giving you greater control of the building and operating systems. Custom Refrigeration-IQ™ controls can meet the specific requirements of individual facilities, providing automation solutions and smart controls that increase energy efficiency, allow building technology to work together, and reduce maintenance costs.

UPGRADE YOUR REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

Refrigeration-IQ™ controls from Egan Company feature a host of benefits, including control optimization for energy and water consumption savings, load sharing configurations to prolong equipment life, and intuitive interface for streamlined operations. The user-friendly software is custom-designed based on your facility’s needs, then integrated into a control panel built in our 25,000 square foot UL 508A Panel Shop in Champlin, Minn. 

When it’s time to upgrade your refrigeration system, consider how Egan’s Refrigeration-IQ™ controls can help optimize your facility and improve the way you control your systems. Get in touch with our refrigeration experts and system integrators to learn more. 

Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Refrigeration Systems

Monday, September 16th, 2024

The energy used to operate industrial refrigeration systems account for approximately 5.7% of the total industrial energy consumption in the United States according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Industrial facilities require significant energy demands, which can affect the costs of running the facility, as well as impacting the carbon footprint of the company. When it comes to refrigeration systems, maintaining peak performance is critical to ensure the quality and efficiency of the products and goods being held within the facility, and energy efficiency may not be at the top of mind for system operators. However, implementing energy efficiency strategies can reduce operating costs, improve the carbon footprint of the facility, and optimize the way the systems are run. 

IDENTIFY INEFFICIENCIES WITH ENERGY AUDITS

Conducting regular energy audits can help identify areas within your facility that can be upgraded. Analyzing your refrigeration system’s patterns, energy consumption, and overall operational health is the first step to enhancing the way the system is run. Working with Egan’s industrial refrigeration experts and UL 508A Panel Shop ensures that nothing is missed in a system audit, and can help establish plans to improve the energy efficiency within your facility. 

UPGRADE TO ENERGY-EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT

Once energy efficiency opportunities have been identified through an energy audit, consider upgrading your equipment to maximize the efficiency within your facility. Newer refrigeration systems are designed to consume less energy while delivering optimal performance, resulting in significant cost savings over time. Energy efficient industrial refrigeration systems are becoming industry standard and operate at the same or better performance than older equipment. With increased performance at reduced operating costs, energy efficient industrial refrigeration systems can make a significant difference in the way facilities are run.

IMPLEMENT SMART CONTROLS AND AUTOMATION

Whether you are updating legacy systems, overhauling your entire refrigeration systems, or are looking for small upgrades to improve efficiency, smart controls and system automation technology can help. Custom refrigeration controls, like Egan’s Refrigeration-IQTM, enable operators to monitor and adjust energy consumption in real-time, improving the energy consumption of the system without compromising performance. Additionally, automation can integrate within your facility to adjust throughout the day. Configuring day/night settings, defrost cycles, and other adjustments can improve the way your system runs. Rather than equipment running at full capacity 24/7, automatically adjusting the settings can optimize the way the whole facility works. 

IMPROVE YOUR FACILITY’S REFRIGERATION OPERATIONS

Prioritizing energy efficiency not only benefits the bottom line but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly operation. Facility operators can configure custom settings based on their specific needs and system requirements, so the refrigeration equipment utilizes only the energy necessary to ensure product quality and safety. 

Find industrial refrigeration solutions that work for you with Refrigeration-IQTM controls from Egan Company. Our UL 508A Panel Shop in Champlin, Minn. can design and manufacture custom control panels that meet your needs. From system design to project commissioning, our CIRO certified engineers can work with you to improve the energy efficiency within your facility. Get in touch with Egan’s refrigeration experts to learn how to maximize the performance of your industrial refrigeration system.

Benefits of an Electrical Maintenance Plan

Wednesday, August 28th, 2024

In commercial facilities and industrial settings, safety and efficiency are top priorities. Keeping the equipment running while ensuring the employees and guests are safe is key to running a smooth operation and maximizing the use of the facility. By maintaining the electrical infrastructure and equipment within a facility, you can minimize equipment downtime while optimizing the safety and efficiency of the building, and the best way to achieve such results is through the implementation of an electrical maintenance plan.  

WHAT IS AN ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE PLAN?

Recently, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published new 70B codes that outline necessary electrical maintenance plans for specific equipment within a given commercial facility. Electrical maintenance plans are a necessary guide that outlines regular inspection and maintenance requirements for commercial electrical equipment. 

Typical maintenance plans can include:

  • Electrical Apparatus Testing & Infrared Scans
  • Electrical Maintenance Training
  • Arc Flash/Coordination Studies
  • Arc Risk Assessments
  • Electrically Safe Work Conditions
  • Documentation of Equipment and Service

 BENEFITS OF AN ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE PLAN

Electrical codes and maintenance plans are designed to serve dual purposes: to maximize the efficiency of your facility, as well as to ensure the safety of your equipment, guests, and personnel. By establishing an electrical maintenance plan with a trusted electrical service contractor, you can proactively address the needs of your electrical systems and stay ahead of potential issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address problems before they escalate, potentially saving you from costly downtime, equipment failures, and safety risks.

Additionally, preventative inspections and maintenance help identify and address potential fire hazards, loose connections, and other safety concerns, keeping your employees and facility safe from electrical incidents. Regular testing of circuit breakers, grounding systems, and other critical components can ensure they are functioning as intended, reducing the risk of electrical shocks or arc flashes.

MAINTAIN COMPLIANCE WITHIN YOUR FACILITY

The safety, efficiency, and reliability of your facility’s equipment is critical for your business’ operations. A well-designed electrical maintenance plan that is up-to-date with NFPA 70B codes, as well as other local, state, and federal regulations, can extend the lifespan of your equipment, reduce downtime from unexpected breakdowns, and enhance the overall performance and safety of your facility. 

Partner with trusted commercial electrical contractors and service technicians in Rochester, Minnesota, Champlin, Minnesota, and Cary, North Carolina who can work with you to design a maintenance plan that fits your facility’s needs and budget. At Egan Company, we take pride in our expertise in electrical maintenance and our commitment to helping our clients benefit from a detailed maintenance schedule. Contact our team to learn how a partnership can help keep you up to code.

How Remote Access Can Decrease Refrigeration Systems Downtime

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024

In fast-paced industries that require reliable refrigeration system operations, maintaining uptime is crucial. When unexpected issues arise, identifying and troubleshooting the problem quickly can keep your business up and running with minimal downtime or disruptions. Every moment counts, which is why remote access and technology for industrial refrigeration control systems can help reduce downtime and provide greater control over your facility. 

ENHANCED MONITORING AND TROUBLESHOOTING

With remote access capabilities integrated within your refrigeration control systems, overseeing your equipment and facility is easy, intuitive, and allows for greater oversight into how your equipment is running. Remote monitoring technology gives users real-time insights and updates into their refrigeration systems, regardless of physical location. This allows facility managers and technicians to quickly and easily identify potential issues, diagnose problems, and begin repairs and adjustments without delays. 

Regular maintenance and equipment inspections can extend the life of your equipment. Remote access refrigeration controls improves the efficiency of regular equipment maintenance, by providing technicians regular access to the status of your system. By working around physical barriers of travel and timely inspections in-person, remote refrigeration controls allow service techs to remotely monitor the status of the refrigeration systems and identify maintenance needs or potential problems more regularly than if they had to visit your facility. Implementing a regular refrigeration maintenance program can help maximize the uptime and lifespan of your equipment, helping to avoid costly emergency repairs. 

ALARMS AND NOTIFICATIONS

Built-in alarm systems alert users of any malfunctions within their refrigeration equipment. From leak detection to emergency notifications, alarm systems can help notify operators about their refrigeration controls and help get ahead to reduce unexpected downtime. With remote access, authorized team members can receive instant notifications and respond promptly to alarms. Troubleshooting emergency situations with refrigeration equipment can be expedited thanks to remote access and alarm capabilities. 

KEEP YOUR REFRIGERATION SYSTEM RUNNING

Incorporate remote access capabilities into your refrigeration control systems and decrease downtime in your facility. With greater oversight, monitoring, troubleshooting, and alarm features, facility managers and technicians can achieve more control and uptime for their refrigeration systems. Embrace remote refrigeration controls and optimize the performance and reliability of your new or legacy systems. Egan Company can help design, build, install, and maintain your industrial refrigeration systems with our Refrigeration-IQ™ controls. Connect with our team today to learn more. 

Top Building Technologies For Schools

Friday, July 12th, 2024

School districts are always looking for new ways to improve the safety, security, and comfort of the buildings for students and staff. Building technology integration plays a crucial role in creating a safe and engaging learning environment. With new technologies and building automation upgrades, schools can plan ahead for the safety and quality of their building for students and staff for years to come. 

FIRE ALARM & LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

Fire alarm and life safety systems are essential for fire detection and life safety needs throughout school buildings. Auditing and reviewing these systems every 10 years or so is important to ensure they are meeting your facility’s needs and you are utilizing the latest technology available to keep your schools safe. Intelligent fire alarm control panels provide early warning capabilities, allowing for quick response and evacuation during emergencies. With features such as easy-to-use panels, mass notification systems, and graphical user interfaces, schools can ensure the highest level of safety for students and staff. 

SECURITY TECHNOLOGY

Advanced security systems, including video surveillance, intrusion systems, and access control, can help monitor and control access to school premises. This building technology can integrate into existing systems, or schools can undergo complete security upgrades during the summer. Integrating these technologies can further improve the safety of schools by connecting to lockdown systems and access control technology for emergencies. Many schools are implementing additional access control measures, including badging, visitor management, mobile credentials, and building lockdown integration with these systems. Individual classrooms as well as entire wings of a campus can have access control measures, keeping every student safe wherever they may be. 

COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

Effective communication is vital in schools. Robust communication systems, such as intercoms and public address systems, enable clear and efficient communication within the premises. Connecting these communication systems with electronic message boards, monitors, and other mass notification systems is an effective way to distribute messages throughout the school or campus, whether you’re trying to contact an individual classroom or the entire building at once. Moving from analog to digital communication systems can more effectively reach students and faculty during lockdowns, weather events, school announcements, and other communications needs. 

BUILDING AUTOMATION

Building automation systems allow schools to have greater control and efficiency over their lighting and HVAC systems, leading to cost effective solutions and comfortable classroom environments all year round. A building automation system integrates smart technology to optimize the usage of lights, heating, and cooling systems throughout the entire school, including individual classrooms. Setting up these systems to operate based on occupancy in a room can reduce operating costs, improve the longevity of the equipment, and assist in your decarbonization initiatives. By utilizing a building automation system throughout each building, school districts can maximize the efficiency, cost, and comfort of running the building, whether it is during peak school hours or the downtime months during summer.  

UPGRADE YOUR SCHOOL

As schools strive to create safe and conducive learning environments, building technology integration becomes increasingly more important. By integrating the latest technologies into buildings, school districts can enhance the safety, security, and overall functionality of educational institutions. Considering upgrades in the near future? Contact Egan Company’s Automation and Technology team to learn how you can benefit from new technologies.