Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 36

Disconnects 101

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A safety switch (or disconnect) monitors the electric current in various applications. They are used with major industrial machines such as conveyor belts, line equipment, heavy appliances, and whole-system electrical protection. You may need to disconnect your equipment from the electrical supply for repairs, maintenance, or emergencies. Safety switches monitor the current and detect faults in the electrical infrastructure so that in the event of an electrical leak, a short-circuit, an overload, or equipment failure, the safety switch will nearly instantaneously (within milliseconds) shut off power to the system.

Safety switches are an NEC requirement (National Electrical Code) in all industrial settings and were established by the National Fire Protection Association. The NEC requires that a safety switch be “in sight” or visible and no more than 50 feet from the equipment it controls.

There are many types of safety switches, and the model you need depends on the conditions inside your working environment. Not sure what type you require? Call J&P Electrical, our experienced and motivated team of staff can help, and if we don’t have the product you are looking for, we’ll find it! 

Types of Disconnects:

  • Light duty safety switch (residential, disconnect workshops, hobby rooms, furnaces, and garages)
  • General duty safety switch (residential & light commercial disconnects)
  • Heavy- duty safety switch
  • Double throw safety switch
  • Indoor
  • Outdoor

Disconnect Fuse Types:

  • Fused
  • Non-Fused
  • Cartridge
  • Class T
  • Plug

Disconnect Maximum Voltage:

  • 120VAC
  • 240VAC
  • 600VAC

Disconnect Amperes:

  • General/light duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 400A, 800A
  • Heavy duty – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 225A, 400A, 600A, 800A, 1200A
  • Double throw – 30A, 60A, 100A, 200A, 600A

Looking for disconnects or other industrial equipment? J&P Electrical is sure to have or be able to find what you’re looking for; give us a call!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

J & P Electrical Company

Big Game Hunter Survival Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Unexpected situations can creep up anywhere – especially while hunting in the fall season. Every year, countless hunters get lost or disoriented, resulting in dangerous conditions such as hypothermia or other health hazards. Most hunters make it out alive, but deep woods hazards should not be taken lightly. Prepare for the unexpected by reviewing our checklist below. 

Know The Area
It’s imperative to be extremely familiar with the landscape you are hunting in. Pay attention to your surroundings including rivers, creeks, and significant trees. If you are on a trail, leave temporary markers at intersections so you can easily find your way back. When reversed, the area can look different, especially in the dark. 

Extreme Weather
If it’s raining, foggy, snowing, or showing signs of poor visibility, the landscape will change in mere minutes. You can easily get lost or turned around in cold, wet weather, so make sure you have the proper gear and clothing to account for extreme weather changes. 

Map + Compass VS GPS + Cell Phones
There are obviously pros and cons to each of these, but the lesson here is not to rely solely on one or the other. While electronic devices can fail due to dead batteries or malfunction, maps and compasses can become wet and ruined or rendered illegible. Not to mention, you need to be trained on how to use them. 

Build a Fire
Carry matches, a lighter, or another fire-starting device that is weatherproof and capable of working in any condition. Never leave a fire unattended, but utilize the warmth if necessary. 

Communicate
Ensure your loved ones know where you are at all times, and set a deadline to alert the authorities if you haven’t returned. If you have a hunting partner, do the same for them.

Light the Path
Flashlights or headlamps are invaluable for hunters and can be handy for a variety of purposes.  

Food, Shelter, and Warmth
While a human can survive days without food, staying warm and hydrated is more critical. If you are out longer than anticipated, commercial survival kits can provide nourishment when you need it.

If you need gear to prepare for the hunt, check out our wide selection at Wolf Survival Gear today.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Wolf Survival Gear

Radiotherapy Equipment to Last a Lifetime

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical equipment professionals often debate whether machines are useful past their “expiration” date. Newer radiation therapy equipment is touted to last seven or eight years, noting that it took roughly seven years to design and program before its release, doubling its age instantaneously. Therefore, the technology, software, and knowledge associated with a 14-year-old device is severely outdated. 

However, this thinking is not necessarily true, as there are machines over 20 years old that are operating safely and reliably. In Latin America, a Varian 6X linear accelerator has been treating patients for more than 40 years.

Since 1953, a GE MaximaR 100 X-Ray Device (also known as a Superficial Unit) has been working at a hospital in the United States. For almost 70 years, this unit has helped treat skin cancer patients by producing mild doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue. This machine is still being manufactured for use in dermatology and radiation oncology clinics.

In the Caribbean, a physician at a radiation oncology center said, “Our 2003 Varian 21EX linear accelerator treats over 50 patients per day. It has all the features we want including RapidArc. The 21EX has successfully treated thousands of patients.”

These machines are well-built and are fully capable of lasting longer than seven or eight years. Certain companies purposefully underestimate the life of their linear accelerators to drive sales and increase new model usage. Also, many refurbished linear accelerators use the exact same technology as the current market models. 

Are you looking to purchase a refurbished linear accelerator or have yours repaired? Contact RadParts today.

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

RadParts

Correctly Draining Pool Water

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Swimming pools are typically enjoyed by families across the country during the summer season. Pool owners are fully aware of the maintenance required to upkeep these tiny bodies of water, such as adding chemicals, more water, or draining the pool. 

Most municipal cities do not allow pool water to be drained into the city’s stormwater system. This includes streets, curbs, catch basins, ditches, gutters, channels, and storm drains. The purpose of the storm drains is to protect against flooding by swiftly clearing torrential rainwater from the street. 

Pool water, on the other hand, is nothing like rainwater. It contains elevated levels of chemicals such as chlorine, salt, chloramines, and other pollutants that can potentially ruin the local water quality. If pool water gets into the stormwater system, it can pose an environmental and public safety threat.

When it is time to drain your pool, you have several options: 

  • Backyard: If you choose to drain your pool in your yard, be mindful of your neighbors’ property and proximity to storm drains. Do some research and learn which plants can’t survive pool water being released in their environment. To avoid flooding, drain your pool in small intervals.
  • Sewer: you can drain your pool water into your home’s main sanitary sewer.
  • Contractor: pool water that has notable contaminants such as algae or other issues should be pumped by a licensed contractor rather than released into the environment.

To find your sewer line cleanout, look for a small circular cap on a pipe with a raised square or mushroom-shaped cone. This line should be either sticking out of your house or from the ground, covering the cleanout. You can also scan the premises for a concrete or metal cover marked “SEWER,” “C.O.,” or “S.” The cleanouts are usually located under these covers.

If you live in a city or municipality, it is usually a good idea to contact them and see what their policy is on pool drainage. Some will require specific rules about when, how, and where to drain your pool. Sometimes, cities require pool water to be chlorine neutral before draining.

Once you properly dispose of your pool water, you can rest assured you have helped preserve the wildlife and water quality in the area.  

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Pound Pool Plastering

Diversity in Clean Energy: Equitable Energy Transition

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The recent passing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was greeted with jubilation from many areas, not least the lawmakers and advocates that worked tirelessly to push it through. Among those celebrating are historically excluded groups (HEGs) and their advocates who have worked to deliver clean energy solutions to those who were previously unable to enjoy the benefits of the green energy transition. The IRA brings fantastic benefits to these groups and organizations, like Solar Stewards, in the form of new tax credits that incentivize renewable development in “Energy Communities.”

HEGs are made of those historically denied full participation in society and denied rights and privileges. While the more well-off have been able to afford to upgrade their homes with solar, wind, and other clean energy alternatives, HEGs have lagged behind. While many might think the term HEG refers exclusively to minorities, it also refers to other disadvantaged groups, such as people living in underdeveloped areas of the nation and those fighting for women’s rights.

Solar Stewards works with HEGs and Community Partners across the nation and, using the Solar Stewards Marketplace, partners with corporate bodies who recognize the value of an equitable energy transition. Corporations purchase Social Renewable Energy Credits to support projects with equity at their core. Revenue from Social REC is directed to Community Partners working directly with neighborhood groups.

These relationships allow Solar Stewards to monitor social impact and compile case studies, enabling them to refine and further support equity initiatives. Each project begins by establishing a Climate Equity Goal (CEG) and assessing which approach can deliver the promise of equity. The Community Partners consider this by using three pillars of social impact:

  • The project is community driven.
  • It must have a direct effect on the intended communities.
  • It must have a quantifiable social impact.

An equitable energy transition is essential to long-term sustainability goals and to combat climate change’s effects. These problems are something that we all face, and no community must be left behind.

____________________________________

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

State Electric Co.

Common Questions & Answers Regarding Surety Bonds and the Prequalification Process

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is a surety bond?

A surety bond is a signed agreement that guarantees compliance, payment, or job performance. Sureties are a type of insurance with a three-party contract in which one party (the surety) guarantees the performance of a second party (the principal) to a third party (the obligee). Surety bonds written for construction projects are called ‘contract surety bonds;’ otherwise, they’re known as commercial surety bonds.

Who is the surety?

A surety is an insurance company or surety company licensed by a state department of insurance that guarantees the performance of a principal. If the principal fails to act as promised, then the surety is liable for losses sustained.  

Who is the principal?

The principal is the person or entity who purchased the bond. In construction, the bond is given to the contractor or subcontractor who undertakes the obligation to perform the job as promised. The surety guarantees the principal’s responsibility.

Who is the obligee?

The obligee is the individual or entity with whom the principal is contracted. In construction, the obligee is the project owner or the primary contractor. Often the obligee is a local, state, or federal government organization.

What documents will I need to get bonded?

  • Completion of a Contractors Questionnaire
  • Fiscal Year End Business Financial Statement for the Contractor and all subsidiaries and affiliates for the last two years
  • Current personal financial statement for all owner(s)
  • Current work on hand schedule
  • Current bank reference letter
  • Resume of all key employees
  • The current insurance certificate naming Construction Bonding Specialists, LLC as a certificate holder

For Bid, Performance, or Payment Bonds – the following items are also required:

  • Contract Bond Request form: Contract Surety
  • A copy of the underlying contract and bond forms for our review

What factors does a surety consider in the underwriting and prequalification process?

Obtaining a construction bond is more like getting bank credit than purchasing insurance. Surety underwriters perform a thorough and detailed process to review and evaluate the financial documents submitted. They also consider factors such as the risk under the specific contract for which the contractor seeks a bond, the contractor’s entire work portfolio, past performance, experience, operational efficiency, managerial skills, business plan, and reputation for integrity. Different sureties will weigh varying factors during the underwriting process, but almost all will consider the following factors:

  • Financial capacity
  • Net worth
  • Cash flow
  • Assets
  • Credit score
  • Work in progress
  • Work history, including expertise and experience
  • The banking relationship
  • The nature of project to be bonded
  • The character of the contractor

BONDS ARE ALL WE DO!

Apply Now!

For more information about our bonds visit our website or call 248-349-6227

At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a distinct surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we work to discover surety solutions for all types of cases ranging from ordinary to challenging. Call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Construction Bonding Specialists

Survival Fishing Techniques

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As the proverb goes, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Fishing has been a skill set used by humans for thousands of years. It’s one of the main sources of nutrition for survival; however, recently, it’s become more of a sport for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fish thrive in almost any body of water. They are packed with protein and are a great go-to, especially if caught in survival mode. For this reason, it’s important to learn how to catch a fish without the bells and whistles of modern-day equipment such as a rod, reel, and tackle. The concept of fishing is easy. Yet, understanding the basics of marine life and their habitat will help, along with having some knowledge of fishing techniques, and practicing patience. Read on to learn a few different methods for fishing without the fancy equipment.

Net Fishing

This style of active fishing allows a person to potentially collect multiple unaware fish in just a single scoop making this method very practical in any survival situation. A fishing net can be created using various materials, ranging from wood, cloth, thick grass/vines, and twine to scraps of your own tee-shirt tied to a couple of sticks. The net needs to be porous, allowing water to flow through, yet strong enough to hold fish. Once you have your net, stand in deep water, yet stay where you can still steadily stand within the current and drag the net along the bottom, working your way up to shore. As you approach shallow water, carefully lift your net to maintain your catch. Hopefully, you will have caught at least several small fish to be used either as bait for larger fish or for a small meal!

Trotlines

A trotline is a passive option to catch fish and doesn’t require a person’s complete and undivided attention. This type of fishing works best if set up over a stream or other running water. Take a sturdy rope or line, tie it to a tree branch, stretch it across a shallow section of water to the other side, and secure. This creates a control line where you’ll add additional lines with a hook and bait on the end every foot or two. This method allows you to leave and return to check on your trotline, and hopefully, you’ll find a fish or two to enjoy.

Live Traps

Using live traps has a couple of advantages over other types of fishing. First, it doesn’t require special equipment like hooks or a fishing line. Secondly, catching and keeping the alive fish means a fresher, tastier meal. A funnel trap is the most basic type of live trap that a person can use. These are created by using a plastic bottle or something similar in shape. Placed with the current, fish swim in the narrow tunnel and become trapped in the larger container. Poke holes to release pressure on the container, weigh it down using rocks, and add bait to entice the fish to enter. Alternatively, you can build a larger version of this live trap called a fish weir. Using natural barriers such as rocks and sticks assembled together, you can guide fish into small, closed-off areas where they cannot swim out due to the current and small opening in which they came through. 

Passive fishing techniques are best for long-term survival as most of your energy will be needed elsewhere. Also, planning is important; keep in mind that your catch is prey for others. Consider smoking or drying your fish to preserve it for long periods. Or keep a live fish well, like your fish weir trap, to retain them. No matter your situation, remaining calm, focused, and maintaining a positive mindset will aid in survival.  

Need supplies? Wolf Survival Gear has long-term food, outerwear, camping gear, and essential survival tools for the great outdoors. 

_____________________________

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Wolf Survival Gear

Panelboards, Switchgear, & Switchboards

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Most people don’t tend to think about it until there is a problem, but the building’s electrical system is so essential that it makes everything else possible. Electrical systems are a mystery to many, so few understand the general basics. Here, we introduce a little about panelboards, switchgear, and switchboards, just so you know, and perhaps help you in keeping things running smoothly.

Panelboards

Panelboards are usually found in commercial buildings due to their large size and the amount of power they can handle. They are designed for single-phase or three-phase applications, depending on your needs. The main function of a panelboard is to distribute power from the source to other devices in your building or facility through breakers designed for specific voltages ranging from 120 to 600 volts or higher, depending on your location. They are the most common circuit breaker box type and are always mounted to a wall. They are used to distribute power to an entire building or other areas. Panelboard covers protect these devices from damage by keeping them dry and clean while providing easy access for maintenance and repair.

Switchgears

Switchgears are used on larger projects, such as factories or warehouses, where there is a need for more than one circuit breaker or fuse within a single enclosure due to increased demand for power or space limitations. This type of equipment is also used in residential homes to automatically shut down the electrical system in the event of a short circuit or other malfunction. Switchgear is for individual components and is the largest of the three. It can be rated for up to 38 kV and run a current of up to 6,000 amps.

Switchboards

Switchboards are typically used where a large amount of equipment requires a lot of power to operate. These devices are designed to control the flow of electricity through multiple breakers without manually closing each one after every use. Like panelboards, switchboards are usually rated for up to 600 volts, but they can manage higher currents, up to 5,000 amps. Switchboards are floor mounted and covered with a panel to provide protection and easy access for maintenance and repair.

Overcurrent protective devices (OCPDs) are devices that send power from the source to the end user. These are sometimes simple devices like light bulbs, or sometimes they’re massive systems that run entire buildings. The three main options for organizing, housing, and utilizing OCPDs are panelboards, switchboards, and switchgear. All three allow for easy access to your power needs in one way or another, but each has its pros and cons that you should consider.

At J&P Electric, we specialize in large industrial electrical equipment, from new surplus to hard to find/reconditioned to like new. Not sure we have what you need? Call us and find out!

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

J & P Electrical Company

Best Inground Pool Heaters of 2022

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As the weather cools and you want to extend the use of your pool, a heater to warm the water is a must. There are a few factors to consider when purchasing an inground pool heater: the size, the environment you live in, how quickly you expect it to heat, and your preference for energy use.

You can heat your pool in many ways, from electric, solar, and natural gas. Depending on where you live and how assessable your utilities may be will further determine which option is best for you. For example, if you live in a northern region with cold winters, you’ll likely want to bypass the solar heater and choose gas or electric, which will heat faster and works better in frigid weather. Those in warmer, sunnier climates would benefit by using solar heaters.

Whichever you decide, we list the pros and cons for each type of heater and name a couple of the best-selling products under each category.  

Gas Powered

Gas-powered pool heaters are powerful and can heat your water up to 20 to 30 degrees relatively quickly. The cost is usually lower compared to solar and electric heaters. Gas heaters require a bit more maintenance and cleaning, which can be costly in terms of time spent cleaning instead of enjoying the pool itself. Also, gas is the most expensive, so over time, any money you save up front will be long gone.

-Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater

-Pentair MasterTemp 125 Low NOx Pool Heater

Solar Powered

Solar-powered pool heaters are often considered one of the best options because they do not require electricity and are cleaner to run. They tend to be more expensive upfront but will save in utilities cost down the line. A solar heater would be more sufficient in temperate regions, as they require more time to heat up.

-Smart Pool S601 Inground Pool Solar Heating System

-Fafco 10028 Universal 24ft x 3.75in Solar Panel Heating Kit

Electric Pool Heaters 

Electric heaters are versatile and the most affordable. They are cheaper than gas because it runs on electricity rather than fuel, which is less expensive. Electric heaters are easier to install because they don’t depend on gas lines. There are two types of electric pool heaters, immersion and circulation heaters. Immersion heaters are installed in the pool water and are typically used for smaller, more shallow pools. The circulation heater, best for larger pools, uses a fan to circulate water through the heating element, which is based outside of the pool.  

– FibroPool FH055 Swimming Pool Heater Pump

– Ecosmart US SMART POOL Tankless Pool Heater

– Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump

Pound Pool Plastering is fully licensed and insured, call today for small or large pool renovations!

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Pound Pool Plastering

FDA Seeks to Improve Patient Communication

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued draft guidance to help ensure that information is available to both patients and health care professionals that clearly communicates the benefits and risks of LASIK devices. Manufacturers are prompted to include this data within their product labeling. In addition, the FDA recommends that manufacturers consider including information about how to use their devices safely and effectively and any clinical trials performed on their products.

The FDA has been concerned that patients may not get all the information they need about LASIK surgery, which can sometimes lead to complications. Patient safety is a top priority for the FDA; therefore, they brought forward this guidance to improve patient communication.

“It is important to provide patients with comprehensive labeling that clearly describes the risks involved with LASIK surgery, including potential adverse effects such as dry eye, pain and discomfort, and visual symptoms,” said Jeff Shuren, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health.

Dr. Shuren continues, “These proposed labeling recommendations, based on extensive consultation with stakeholders and patients, are intended to present information about LASIK in language that is easy to read and understand and include images that convey visual symptoms that could occur following LASIK.”  

This draft guidance is based on the FDA’s understanding of current industry practices for labeling LASIK devices and feedback from patient groups, industry representatives, and other stakeholders. The agency believes this guidance will help ensure that all the necessary information is available to the patients and health care providers to communicate without leaving any stone unturned about the benefits and risks of LASIK surgery.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Michigan Lasik