By: RK Electrical 

Over the next two decades, energy consumption is expected to increase by 30%, according to Oil & Gas Journal, meaning the need for better energy efficiency is necessary to keep up with our power-dependent lifestyles. To move towards a more energy-efficient future, corporations need to measure how effectively their electricity usage is through power factor.

WHAT IS POWER FACTOR?

Power factor is the ratio between the real power (what is used for heating, lighting, etc.), reactive power (what is pulled to create magnetic fields) and the apparent power (real and reactive power combined) consumed by an alternating current (AC) electrical system.

Power factor measures how efficiently electrical power is converted into useful output. Ideal power transmission is 100% efficiency or a power factor of one, anything less means that additional power is needed to achieve the same task. Unfortunately, a power factor of one is nearly impossible to sustain. Electrical devices connected to a network may use or produce power, causing variation in the power factor. If the variation isn’t corrected, higher currents are pulled from the network which can lead to:

• Grid instability or an imbalance between production and consumption of energy
• Higher fees from utility providers
• Diminished transmission capacity

Major causes of poor power factor are inductive loads on equipment. Inductive loads resist changes in current and create lag.

HOW IS POWER FACTOR CORRECTION PERFORMED?

Adding power factor correction capacitors to the electrical system is the simplest way to improve the power factor. These capacitors act as reactive current generators, which help to offset the non-working power used by inductive loads and improve the power factor. Capacitors are cost-effective, easy to install and the return on investment is typically achieved within one to two years of usage.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF IMPROVING THE POWER FACTOR?

The power distribution system in a network can be overloaded by excess current. Improving the power factor can offer many benefits, including:

• Lower electric bills by eliminating utility penalties for a poor power factor
• Improved energy efficiency due to reduced power losses
• Increased capacity of the current
• Improved voltage to equipment
• Environmentally friendly – less power needs to be generated, so less CO2 is produced
• Increased lifecycle of equipment with less heat generation within cables, switchgear, transformers and other equipment.

RK Electrical performs a variety of electrical work including repair, installation and equipment replacement for all types of electrical systems. Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com today for a free consultation.

By: RK Electrical 

An arc flash is a type of electrical explosion that occurs when electric current travels through the air between two conductors or a conductor and the ground. More specifically, the arc flash is the heat and light created by an electrically energized arc.

What Causes An Arc Flash?

• Accidentally touching the wrong surface or dropping a tool
• Sparks from breaks or gaps
• Equipment failure from faulty installation or normal wear and tear
• Dust, condensation or corrosion

What Are The Dangers?

Arc flash injuries can be violent and often cause serious injury and even death.

FIVE MOST COMMON DANGERS TO WORKERS

• Being thrown to the ground, blown into a wall or off a ladder by large shock waves
• Concussions that cause loss of memory or brain trauma
• Ruptured eardrums due to the deafening blast can cause hearing loss
• Receiving a strong shock by accidentally touching energized conductors
• Skin burns caused by heat from the blast

Because of these dangers, The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed specific approach boundaries designed to protect employees while working on or near energized equipment. The further from a potential blast that a worker is, the lesser chance they have of being severely injured.

Facility managers and safety teams should work together to explain risks to employees.

Qualified employees should always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, use insulated tools and follow safety precautions when performing work on electrical equipment. The overall most effective way to eliminate the risk of an arc flash is to de-energize equipment before working on it.

DANGERS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS

It is in the best interest of business owners to regularly maintain their equipment, continue safety training for employees and provide appropriate safety precautions for anyone working with electrical equipment. Some of the most common dangers for business owners resulting from an arc flash are:

• Fire spreading throughout the building/property
• Damage to nearby equipment due to flying objects from the blast
• Extreme heat melting materials and equipment
• Increased costs due to employee injuries and equipment damage

NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Compliance standards require building owners to complete an ARC flash risk assessment on the facility’s electrical distribution system to minimize the risk of arc flash, shock hazards and injuries. RK Electrical can conduct these complex studies and provide the reporting you need for safety compliance. Contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com to schedule a risk assessment.

By: RK Service

Facilities management is the maintenance of buildings and equipment. It’s a complex and difficult job which is necessary to support and help improve the effectiveness of any business. Effective facilities management aids in providing a safe and efficient working environment; and contributes to the delivery of strategic and operational objectives.

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT GOALS

Facilities teams often lack the appropriate resources needed in order to meet their facilities management goals. Many times they are overworked and can’t keep up with routine maintenance. They are too busy handling day to day duties and emergencies, requiring outside assistance in order to get back on track.

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP

When companies need assistance reaching their facilities goals, they create a facilities management partnership. A strong partnership can formulate and realize the overall facilities management strategy. While there are many benefits to utilizing a facilities management partnership, these are the top five.

1. ASSET MANAGEMENT
   Keeping tabs on each mechanical asset is a daunting task. Today, technology has enabled service providers to inventory and track all mechanical assets on a cloud-based platform with easy to use customer Warranty status, repair and maintenance history, upcoming scheduled events and EOL forecasts are all recorded and accessible from a single source.

2. LONG-TERM CAPEX/OPEX BUDGET PLANNING
   Are you haunted by budget planning season? Eliminate the element of surprise with your CFO by creating a ten-year budget plan based on asset life expectancy. The cost of repairs and replacement are inevitable, the surprise doesn’t need to be.

3. STAFFING AUGMENTATION
   Hiring additional full-time employees can be very time consuming and expensive. A facilities management partnership reduces your staffing needs by allowing you access to licensed engineers and technicians when you need them for significantly less money and headache.

4. SCHEDULED SERVICES
   A facilities management partner will manage your ongoing maintenance schedule. Technicians will perform the maintenance tasks and supply you with a report of their findings, along with advice as to what should be done next.

5. ON-CALL SERVICES
   Find a trusted advisor who will be there when you need them. When situations arise that are outside of your skill set or you simply don’t have the coverage, a strong service partner will quickly mobilize for critical repairs and replacement.

RK Service is dedicated to maintaining an outstanding partnership in support of our clients. With our team of 80 technicians and 24-hour on-call emergency services, we are there for you when you need us the most. Utilizing our GPS-located vehicles, we’ll dispatch the nearest technician to assist you. Our diverse experience, dedicated account management and full MEP scope allow us to offer expert advice to companies looking to transform their current facilities services. A close and strategic partnership with us can limit risk and increase opportunities to add value. RK Service is backed by the power of RK, drawing on the knowledge of over 1,600 employees in a variety of trades. Contact us at servicesales@rkindustries.com to discuss your facilities management partnership needs and what we can do to help you reach your goals.

By: RK Service

Colorado is known for its severe spring and summer storms, and they typically include large hailstones. Hail forms when updrafts in thunderstorms pull rain up into frigid areas of the atmosphere where they freeze into ice pellets. When the storm can no longer support the weight of the hailstones or the updraft weakens, the hail falls to the ground. The larger the hailstones, the more damage they can do.

Hail can cause serious damage to a building’s roof or ground-mounted machinery and equipment. It often damages the facility’s condenser unit, reducing its ability to dissipate heat. This excess heat not only greatly reduces building efficiency and creates unhappy occupants, it is likely to cause the compressor and condenser fans to fail, resulting in much higher repair costs.

An RTU damaged in a major hail storm.

AFTER A BIG STORM YOU NEED TO HAVE YOUR EQUIPMENT CHECKED!

• Assess equipment exposure:
  Conduct an on-site inspection to alert you of potential problems and possible solutions.
• Repair or replace equipment:
  Hire a qualified technician to perform necessary repairs or replace your damaged equipment, if necessary.
• Prevent damage from the next storm:
  Install hail guards to protect the longevity and energy efficiency of your equipment.
• Prolong asset life and reduce your operating costs: 
  Keeping up with planned maintenance is the most efficient way to keep your equipment up and running.

Contact RK Service at servicesales@rkindustries.com to conduct a free inspection of your rooftop or ground-mounted equipment, make any emergency repairs or replacements and help you prevent damage from the next storm. If you experienced additional hail damage to your roof or windows, our team can also connect you with other experienced and reputable contractors, getting you back in business as soon as possible.

By: RK Electrical 

What is Infrared Thermography?

Infrared thermography is the science of measuring temperature through detectors that are sensitive to infrared energy and displaying the result as an infrared image. All objects emit thermal energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation. The hotter the object is, the more intense the infrared radiation emitted.

How Does it Work?

Most equipment failures experience a significant rise in temperature long before the failure occurs. Infrared thermography detects heat which can help identify deteriorating pieces of equipment before they fail.

With this technology, thermal information can be captured from operating equipment at a safe distance. This allows viewing of irregular temperature readings under normal operating conditions and the ability to pinpoint the problem before the equipment breaks down.

Infrared thermography is ideal for a wide range of situations because it does not require direct contact with the equipment. It is most useful in testing parts that are unable to be shut off, difficult to reach, hot, moving, dangerous or might be damaged through direct contact. Infrared cameras are also very helpful in detecting energy or moisture-related problems in a building.

Top 5 Benefits of Infrared Thermography

1. Live Testing: Testing can be performed while equipment is functioning, reducing service disruption.
2. Detects Defects and Increases Energy Efficiency: Quickly spotting defective areas of energy loss or excess moisture allows for a faster fix and better energy efficiency.
3. More Effective Maintenance: By being able to pinpoint specific areas of need rather than testing every component, maintenance can be done more quickly and efficiently.
4. Low Inventory Costs: Since infrared thermography spots areas that could become a problem before they do, parts can be ordered as needed.
5. Real Time Results Reduce Downtime and Increase Safety: Using technology with predictive abilities and real-time recording allows companies to plan for maintenance shutdowns. This also keeps workers safe by preventing potential injuries from equipment failure.

RK Electrical uses infrared thermography to identify electrical problems, locate thermal patterns and detect hot spots in motors, breakers and switchgear enabling. We analyze this data to improve systems, enhance environmental comfort and increase building efficiency. Conserving energy in this way saves our customers money.  If you are interested in having our team inspect your equipment with infrared thermography, contact us at rkelectrical@rkindustries.com for more information.

By: RK Energy

After a painful two-year price war with The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the worst may finally be over for the American oil and gas industry. 2016 was one of the most difficult years for the U.S. domestic oil and natural gas industry, but 2017 seems to be taking a positive turn as the industry starts to pick itself up after years of low prices and massive layoffs—plus, surviving companies are now more sophisticated.

Companies that Survived the Down Turn are Doing More with Less

Low oil prices forced companies to figure out how to do more with less, relying on sophisticated technology and lower cost options for personnel and equipment.  These companies have cut their operating expenses in half, paid off debt and increased cash flow. If they continue boosting savings and modestly increasing production, oil companies could be on track to make money this year. In addition, corporate mergers and acquisitions are more attractive as lean and highly productive companies are valuable.

Drilling Rigs are Ramping Up

The excessive amount of oil available on the international market has gradually dissipated, leading the number of drilling rigs in the U.S. to ramp back up. Compared to other states, Colorado producers have weathered the downturn with almost double the drilling rigs currently operating from the low last May.

New Factors Affect Natural Gas Prices

Natural gas prices in the U.S. used to be determined by the seasons, with winter seeing the highest prices. Now that demand is coming from a number of new sources, the weather is no longer the determining factor.

One factor is that a transition from coal to natural gas for electricity generation has begun, driving demand up. The current surplus is above the five-year average, which will slowly strengthen price. However, the real improvement in the natural gas picture lies in the hands of the producing companies. If field efficiency and new technology continue to improve, operators will need to keep a balance between their revenue needs and long-term market trends.

Demand is also picking up through the transition from gasoline to liquid natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) for vehicle fuel in both normal and hybrid engines. City buses and taxis are starting to use LNG and CNG along with large-end trucks.

Overall, companies that have weathered the downturn with increased efficiency and financial strength, are able to start operating drilling rigs that have been quiet for two years. Along with expanded uses for natural gas, 2017 is shaping up to be a stable and productive year for oil and gas companies.

RK Energy specializes in custom manufactured and skidded equipment for the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors in the oil and gas industry as well as renewable energy. We use advanced engineering, preconstruction and CAD modeling to fabricate skidded equipment for easy installation and maintenance in the field. If you’re looking to join the oil and gas industry revival, contact us at rkenergy@rkindustries.com to discuss what RK Energy can do for you.

By: RK Mission Critical

HISTORY OF DATA CENTERS

Since the late 1990s, when data centers became mainstream, to now, companies struggle with:

1. Building their own data centers from the ground up
2. Leasing space in an existing data center
3. Buying or leasing an existing building and renovating it

Each of these options comes with some drawbacks. Companies that build their own data centers often experience sticker shock when they realize the hard costs involved, such as acquiring land in a suitable location, hiring an experienced construction team to build the facility and investing in the right mechanical, electrical and security systems. Weather and other construction-related delays often lead to budget overages and missed deadlines. In addition, executives have to make an educated guess as to how much capacity they will need over the next several years making growth or reduction difficult.

Organizations that outsource their data center needs don’t always fare better. Finding a data center provider in the right location is often a challenge. Some IT teams want their technology assets in close proximity to their organization’s headquarters. There are also concerns that moving to an outsourced data center means having to use pre-set technology and vendor services from the data center provider, making customization impossible.

Another challenge with outsourcing data center needs is that IT teams have very specific location requirements. For example, data centers should be located away from certain industrial operations or commercial flight patterns. Plus, not all data center providers are created equal, so finding an experienced partner with the right infrastructure and systems in place is also challenging.

Some enterprises lease or purchase existing buildings and perform tenant improvements to transform them into data centers. One benefit of this approach is that they don’t have to build the structure themselves, which saves money and shortens timelines. However, since these structures are not purpose-built to serve as data centers, there are often physical limitations that force the enterprise to compromise their standards. Finally, leasing a building exposes enterprises to rent increases as well as the possibility of being pushed out by their landlord.

MODULAR DATA CENTERS ALLOW FOR GROWTH

Modular data centers, or what the industry often refers to as prefabricated modular (PFM) data centers, are the solution to traditional data center downfalls. Using the same technology and components found in traditional data centers, PFM data centers are constructed in a climate-controlled facility with mechanical and electrical systems integrated prior to shipment, as well as varying levels of the IT stack. The data center components are then transported to the customer site and assembled like building blocks that accelerate the construction schedule while providing potential cost savings. The resulting data centers are fully self-contained, weather-tight and only require utilities and network connections.

High costs, capacity and systems limitations found in traditional data centers have caused enterprises to turn to PFM data centers for their flexibility and scalability. Compute space, power and cooling are matched to current IT demands, so organizations only pay for the facilities they need at any time. And as IT demands change, modules can be added like building blocks. This keeps IT and facilities continually aligned without risk of over- or under-investing in data center resources. Finally, some PFM data centers are technology and vendor agnostic, so IT teams have the freedom to use any technology suppliers they choose without fear of vendor lock-in.

RK Mission Critical is an expert in prefabricating modular data centers. We construct the major components in our quality-controlled fabrication shop, then quickly assemble everything at the customer’s site. This not only accelerates the construction schedule but can also offer financial benefits over traditional construction. Contact us for a free consultation on the many benefits of prefabricated construction at info@rkmissioncritical.com.

By: RK Steel

Steel canopies are durable, attractive, versatile and offer a convenient way to create a sheltered space. They can also provide significant cost savings as they only require concrete piers rather than full concrete slabs. Steel canopies can be built as freestanding structures or as add-ons to existing buildings and have a variety of uses.

Why Steel Canopies?
Wood canopies require significant ongoing maintenance and have been known to fail in severe storms. They can be costly to build and are not portable. Tent canopies can be great for a temporarily shaded space outdoors but lack durability and will quickly deteriorate after repeated exposure to the elements.

• Steel canopies have clear advantages over wood or tent canopies.
• Steel is naturally fire retardant. It has an extremely high melting point and will not contribute to the spread of a fire. In addition, fireproofing material is often applied to exposed steel surfaces to provide an additional hour of integrity and escape-ability during a fire before failure begins to set in.
• Steel provides high strength and durability making it capable of withstanding heavy winds and snow loads.
• Steel shapes allow for greater spans.
• Steel is 100{daeb8d662f58e4975bc93960761d671bdf0aa2ad049ea8a375d2717d280ef80b} recyclable and has an endless life cycle that does not reduce its strength or durability making it an excellent environmental choice.
• Steel canopies can be portable and used for both indoor and outdoor functions.
• While steel does have the potential to rust over time, it requires much less maintenance than its counterparts. Weathering Steel, Grade A588, A606 or Cor-Ten, is designed to rust when exposed to the elements and eventually seals itself for a rustic look over time which eliminates the need for painting.

What Purposes Can Steel Canopies Serve?

• Steel canopies can be attached to existing buildings to provide additional shelter over loading zones, extended waiting areas or building entrances and exits. A feature that will be appreciated by customers during inclement weather.
• Canopies can also provide shade from the sun which can decrease business utility costs and increase customer comfort.
• Drive-through passageways, such as service windows can be improved with steel canopies, keeping money, food and customers dry during a storm.
• Covered parking can provide vehicle protection from the hot summer sun and harsh winter conditions.
• They can be used for outdoor coverage of existing tennis courts, basketball courts and batting cages.
• Farmers can use steel canopies to store hay and equipment away from the elements.
• They offer a non-combustible way for gas stations to cover pumps and protect customers from sun and rain.
• They can be built as shelters for picnic areas.
• Lean-tos, shacks with an inclined roof which are supported on one side by a tree, post or building, are another option for weather protection in rustic environments.

RK Steel is an expert at fabricating and installing steel canopies for Balfour Beatty, Denver Transit Partners and the Regional Rail Stations providing protection from the elements for riders awaiting the next train. These particular canopies (pictured above) were 40′ long and installed as an assembly to reduce costs. RK Steel prefabricates canopies in a climate controlled shop to ensure that on-site installation will be smooth. Contact us at rksteelestimating@rkindustries.com to discuss your steel canopy needs.

By: RK Mechanical

Working outside during the winter can leave construction workers susceptible to hypothermia, frostbite or trench foot, a decaying of the feet due to prolonged cold and wet conditions. In extreme cases, workers without proper personal protection equipment can also suffer shock that could even lead to death. Not only do workers need to stay warm and dry to prevent health risks, but it’s also important to eat properly, stay active and keep an eye on coworkers.

Productivity is often delayed due to harsh weather. So, work hours should be scheduled during the warmest part of the day. Below are some recommendations to stay warm, healthy and safe during the winter season.

Winter Clothing and Layering Reduce Injury Risks

Clothing should be selected to suit temperature, conditions, duration of the activity and location. Wearing proper clothing and layering can reduce sweating and the risk of injury. It’s best to avoid cotton material, as once it gets wet from rain, snow or sweat, it will begin to extract heat out of the body. Some alternate material choices are fleece, wool, Thinsulate, nylon and polypropylene. Weather can change rapidly, therefore it is important to plan and dress accordingly.

The top nine types of clothing to wear while working in the cold:

1. Thermal insulated coveralls
2. Thermal polyester underwear
3. Fleece or wool liner for hard hat
4. Insulated gloves, mittens should be worn for extreme temperatures below -17 degrees
5. Wrap-around eye protection
6. Scarves
7. Thick socks: layer two pairs to stay warmer longer, but avoid a tight fit which restricts circulation
8. Insulated boots
9. Waterproof/windproof external layers

Warm Break Areas Help Re-energize

When spending long hours exposed to the elements, a warm area to rest will help workers warm up and re-energize. Breaks are of the utmost importance, but without a warm and comfortable place to rest, breaks can be useless. For long-term construction projects, setting up a warming shelter is a must. Temporary tents with portable heaters can be used for smaller projects.

Incorporate a Buddy System to Stay Safe

Avoid traveling or working on your own unless someone knows your route and estimated time of return. Workers in frigid weather can show signs of uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech and erratic behavior. Keep an eye on your peers to help them stay safe.

If a co-worker is showing early signs of Hypothermia, like uncontrollable shivering, apply these treatments to help:

• Provide them with a warm drink or hot food to quickly restore body heat
• Keep them moving to increase blood flow and warm the body
• Provide an extra layer of clothing or blanket, if available, to prevent further heat loss

If more severe signs are present, such as slurred speech or erratic behavior, call for emergency help right away. While waiting for help to arrive, provide warm drinks, extra layers and heating blankets, if available.

Hydration and Good Snacks are Important in the Winter

• Hydration is very important in the winter. Drinks with caffeine and alcohol should be avoided, as they restrict blood vessels and impede the body’s ability to heat itself. Make sure to consume lots of water and non-caffeinated hot beverages, such as decaffeinated coffee, tea or hot chocolate throughout the day.
• Several snacks throughout the day are better than one or two heavy meals. The best choices are carbohydrates such as bread and bagels as well as cheese, butter and meats which add fat content to keep your body warm.

Save Your Skin from Freezing Temperatures

• Apply skin cream to exposed skin to help avoid frostbite and ward off hypothermia.
• Equipment with metal handles and bars should be covered by thermal insulating material and designed to be operated with proper grip using mittens or gloves.

It’s especially important to stress these simple points to people who may not be accustomed to cold temperatures. Holding safety meetings to help workers identify the signs and symptoms of cold-related illness and injuries and training them how to prevent and treat these injuries can save lives.

At RK, we take safety seriously and empower our employees to stop work if unsafe conditions exist. We encourage our employees to take responsibility for their own safety, as well as that of those working alongside them. Working responsibly in cold weather is no exception.

RK assesses how every aspect of our work integrates to improve your project. From conception through completion, we streamline the process while maximizing value. The combined skill set of our seven business units makes us the region’s most powerful single source for mechanical contracting, custom manufacturing, steel fabrication, prefabricated construction, facilities services, electrical work and water treatment solutions. If you would like to know more about our safety procedures or have questions about what we can do for your business, contact us at communications@rkindustries.com.

By: RK Energy

Colorado Resolution 35 is a quality program that applies to factory-built, non-residential structures. The Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Division of Housing, Standards & Technology section enforces compliance with the standard.

A factory-built, non-residential structure is one that is designed for commercial, industrial or other non-residential use and is made, fabricated, formed or assembled in a manufacturing facility for installation or assembly and installation on a foundation at the building site.

All fabricated non-residential structures that are manufactured, sold or offered for sale in the State of Colorado must display the Colorado Resolution 35 quality program seal, which is issued by the state. This seal certifies that the structure has been constructed in compliance with applicable codes and regulations adopted by the State Housing Board. It is required even for small structures which would otherwise not be except to operate the controls or maintain equipment.

Failure to comply with the rules and regulations outlined in the program can result in a Prohibited Sale Notice and, possibly, a Red Tag Notice being posted on the applicable structure. These notices state that the structure may not be sold or moved without prior written approval from the Division of Housing. A Prohibited Sale Notice means that the structure contains a violation. A Red Tag Notice indicates that there is a life threatening violation present. In both cases, the structure must be corrected and re-inspected for a fee before the tags will be removed and the structures can be sold.

The Colorado Resolution 35 quality program is a useful plan for businesses that need more than a simple management system but less than full compliance with ISO:9001. The quality program for compliance with Colorado Resolution 35 is considered an intermediate construction-grade management system.

For information about how RK Energy can ensure that your factory-built, non-residential structures will comply with Colorado Resolution 35, contact us at rkenergy@rkindustries.com.