In the world of automation and industrial control systems, there’s one component that plays a critical role in managing and controlling complex processes. This component is known as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). A PLC is a special purpose computer employed in industrial processes to automate control systems. It is a rugged and reliable piece of hardware designed to withstand harsh industrial environments, making it ideal for use in factories, power plants, assembly lines, and other industrial settings. PLCs are primarily used to monitor and control machinery, equipment, and processes, facilitating efficient and precise operations. From PLC upgrades and installations to fabricating new I/O control panels and wiring, Egan Company is your resource when it comes to unmatched control system integration and engineering expertise.

FUNCTIONALITY AND COMPONENTS

PLCs consist of three primary components: a central processing unit (CPU), input modules, and output modules. The CPU acts as the brain, executing programs and coordinating the communication between inputs and outputs. Input modules are responsible for receiving signals from various sensors and switches, such as temperature sensors, pressure transducers, or limit switches, while output modules are responsible for controlling actuators, such as motors, solenoid valves, or relays. The PLC can also communicate with smart devices such as servo drives and VFDs.

The programming of PLCs is done using specialized software, allowing control engineers to create logic-based programs that define the behavior of the PLC. These programs are typically written using ladder logic, a graphical programming language that represents control circuits in a logical and intuitive manner. Additionally, PLC programming languages can include function block diagrams (FBD), structured text (ST), and sequential function charts (SFC).

PLC ADVANTAGES

PLCs offer several advantages over PC-based control, making them a preferred choice in industrial automation. Some key benefits of using PLCs include:

• Flexibility: PLCs can be easily reprogrammed or modified to accommodate changes in the manufacturing process, making them highly flexible and adaptable.
• Reliability: PLCs are built to operate in harsh environments with high levels of vibration, temperature fluctuations, and electrical noise. Their rugged design ensures reliable performance and reduces the risk of downtime.
• Centralized Control: PLCs enable centralized control of multiple devices, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each machine or process. This centralized approach improves coordination of separate steps of a manufacturing process as well as simplifying troubleshooting.
• Fault Detection and Diagnostics: PLCs provide advanced diagnostic capabilities, allowing for real-time monitoring and detection of faults. This feature aids in proactive maintenance and reduces downtime.

By providing reliable, flexible, and efficient control, PLCs have revolutionized industrial automation. When it comes to control system integration and engineering, Egan Company is your partner. Check out Egan’s Latest PLC Upgrade>

Electrical infrastructure demands tailor electrical systems to suit unique requirements. The two domains, industrial and commercial, each have a distinct set of challenges and necessities. While both rely on electricity to power their operations, understanding the differences between industrial and commercial electrical systems is essential for professionals working in the field. As your resource in the electrical industry, Egan Company is an expert in both industrial and commercial electrical in Minneapolis, Rochester, and beyond.

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS:

Industrial electrical systems in Minnesota are designed to cater to the complex demands of manufacturing plants, factories, and heavy industries. These settings typically involve large-scale machinery, equipment, and industrial processes that consume substantial amounts of power. Key features that differentiate industrial electrical systems:

• Power Capacity: Industrial electrical systems are engineered to handle high power loads. They require robust infrastructure, including high-voltage substations, transformers, and switchgear, capable of managing substantial electrical currents.
• Three-Phase Power: Industrial settings often employ three-phase power systems to distribute electricity efficiently. Three-phase power offers better performance for motor-driven equipment and provides a more balanced and stable power supply.
• Motor Control: Industrial electrical systems frequently involve motor control centers (MCCs) to manage the operation of motors and associated equipment. MCCs enable centralized control, protection, and monitoring of various motors across the facility.
• Hazardous Environments: Industrial environments may present hazardous conditions such as explosive atmospheres, high temperatures, or corrosive substances. Therefore, industrial electrical systems must comply with stringent safety regulations, employing specialized equipment like explosion-proof enclosures and intrinsically safe wiring.

COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS:

Commercial electrical systems in Minnesota, on the other hand, cater to non-industrial environments, including office buildings, retail spaces, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. While these settings may not have the same power demands as industrial sectors, they have their own unique requirements. Characteristics of commercial electrical systems:

• Lighting and HVAC: Commercial spaces emphasize lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These systems consume a significant portion of the energy load, and electrical infrastructure is designed to support their operation efficiently.
• Single-Phase Power: Unlike industrial settings, most commercial electrical systems utilize single-phase power distribution. Single-phase power is suitable for lighter loads and is commonly used for lighting, small appliances, and general office equipment.
• Outlets and Circuitry: Commercial spaces require ample electrical outlets to accommodate various electronic devices and equipment. Adequate circuitry planning is crucial to ensure proper distribution of power, prevent overloading, and maintain safety standards.
• Fire and Life Safety Systems: Commercial buildings incorporate fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, exit signs, and other life safety measures. These systems must be integrated into the electrical infrastructure to ensure the safety of occupants during emergencies.

Distinctions between industrial and commercial electrical systems is crucial for electrical engineers, contractors, and facility managers, as it enables them to design, install, and maintain electrical infrastructure tailored to the unique demands of each sector. At Egan, leading electricians have worked on thousands of electrical construction projects throughout the Twin Cities metro area, Rochester and Southern Minnesota, as well as Northern Minnesota. Whether your requirements entail low voltage solutions or solar engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services, we proudly stand as the preferred contractor for your needs.

Building Automation Systems (BAS) are essential for managing the complex systems in commercial and industrial buildings. They control everything from HVAC and lighting to security and energy management. But as technology changes, so do BAS systems. If you want your BAS to continue to be effective in the future, it needs to be future-ready. Partnering with Egan Company, your system will be ready for all of the changes to come.

Here are a few reasons why your BAS needs to be future-ready:

• Technology is constantly evolving: The technology that BAS systems are built on is constantly evolving. New technologies are emerging all the time, and it’s important for BAS systems to be able to adapt to these new technologies. For example, BAS systems are now beginning to use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to improve efficiency and optimize performance.
• Building requirements are changing: The requirements for buildings are also changing. Buildings are becoming more energy efficient, more sustainable, and more secure. BAS systems need to be able to adapt to these changing requirements. For example, BAS systems can now be used to monitor and control energy consumption, track carbon emissions, and manage security systems.
• The needs of building occupants are changing: The needs of the people who occupy buildings are also changing. People are demanding more comfortable, healthier, and more productive environments. BAS systems can be used to improve comfort, air quality, and productivity. For example, BAS systems can be used to control lighting, ventilation, and temperature to create a more comfortable environment via improved occupant sensing without operator or user interactions.

If you want your BAS to continue to be effective in the future, it needs to be future-ready. Here are a few things to look for in a future-ready BAS:

• Open architecture: a future-ready BAS should have an open architecture that allows it to be easily integrated with new technologies. This will make it easier to adapt the BAS to changing requirements and needs.
• Scalability: a future-ready BAS should be scalable so that it can be easily expanded to accommodate new systems and devices. This will allow the BAS to grow with your building.
• Security: a future-ready BAS should be secure to protect your building from unauthorized access and cyberattacks.
• Ease of use: a future-ready BAS should be easy to use so that you can easily manage it. This will save you time and money.

If you’re considering upgrading your BAS, be sure to choose a system that is future-ready. This will ensure that your BAS can continue to meet your needs for years to come. Contact Egan Company today to learn more about our future-ready BAS solutions and how we can help you improve the efficiency, comfort, security, and compliance of your building.

In today’s world, sustainable practices and green building initiatives have gained significant importance. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building certification program developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED certification is awarded to buildings that meet certain standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation.

As businesses and individuals strive to reduce their environmental footprint, earning LEED  certification has emerged as a notable accomplishment. Simply put, LEED certification validates a building’s commitment to sustainability and offers a roadmap to eco-friendly construction.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LEED RATING SYSTEM

Commercial building projects can pursue different LEED rating systems based on their unique characteristics and goals. The available options include LEED for Building Design and Construction (BD+C), LEED for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C), and LEED for Operations and Maintenance (O+M). Each rating system caters to specific stages of a building’s life cycle, ensuring comprehensive sustainability practices from inception to operation.

THE LEED CERTIFICATION PROCESS:

1. Project Registration: Developers register their commercial building project with the USGBC and select the appropriate LEED rating system.
2. Documentation and Compliance: Detailed documentation and evidence must be provided to demonstrate compliance with LEED prerequisites and credits. This may include architectural plans, material specifications, energy models, and sustainability reports.
3. LEED Certification Levels: Buildings can earn different levels of certification based on the number of points accumulated. These levels include Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points), and Platinum (80+ points). The more points earned, the higher the level of certification achieved.
4. Verification and Review: The USGBC reviews the documentation and conducts an on-site inspection to verify the building’s compliance with LEED requirements. This rigorous process ensures the integrity and credibility of LEED-certified buildings.

CERTIFICATION MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS: 

Maintaining LEED certification is an ongoing commitment. This maintenance includes monitoring energy usage, water consumption, indoor air quality, and other key performance indicators to ensure continued compliance with LEED standards. 

By earning LEED certification, commercial buildings demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, reaping the benefits of reduced operational costs, improved occupant satisfaction, and a positive impact on the environment. As the world moves towards a greener future, LEED certification remains a beacon of excellence for the built environment.

If considering pursuing LEED certification for a commercial building, there are a number of resources available; check out the USGBC website which has resources as well as detailed information about LEED certification.

The U.S. solar industry continues to grow and Egan Company has found a front-row seat to this action, with business increasing over the last few years. Whether you’re like Sheryl Crow and looking to “Soak Up The Sun”, businesses are taking advantage of this natural resource through solar panels.

Businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact, save money, and/or improve their energy independence should consider investing in solar power.

THE SHIFT TO SOLAR ENERGY

The world continues to shift toward renewable energy, and one of the most promising sources is solar power. Solar energy is clean, renewable, and abundant. In recent years, many large solar projects have been completed around the U.S., and they continue to be developed at a rapid pace in our local markets.

This uptick in renewables is often attributed to solar energy becoming more efficient and affordable to harness. Similarly, panels can be placed anywhere the sun shines. Commercial solar energy systems can be installed as a ground mount system or a rooftop system; they can range in size from small systems that power a single office to large installations utilized by power companies for residential and commercial customers. All of these systems generate electricity from sunlight, which is captured by photovoltaic cells in the solar panels.

Why commercial and industrial facilities are investing in solar:

1. Cost savings: Installing solar can help businesses save money on their energy bills by generating their own electricity and reducing their reliance on the grid. Over time, the savings from reduced energy bills can help businesses recoup the system’s cost.
2. Environmental benefits: By using solar power, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. This can also help improve their public image and reputation, which can be beneficial for attracting customers and employees who value sustainability.
3. Energy independence: Solar allows businesses to generate their own electricity, reducing their dependence on traditional energy sources. This can help insulate them from rising energy costs and power outages.
4. Long-term investment: Solar has a long lifespan and requires minimal maintenance, making them a reliable and cost-effective long-term investment for businesses.
5. Incentives and tax credits: Thanks to a pro-renewables U.S. government administration and increased concern over climate change, many incentives and tax credits are available to businesses that invest in solar power, making it even more cost-effective and attractive.

For nearly 15 years, Egan has continued to support solar projects providing for a cleaner and more sustainable future. From solar farms to rooftop unit installations, 160+ MW of power have been produced from these sites. 

More recently, the Egan team has embarked on its biggest solar project yet: Hoot Lake Solar >

Building Automation Systems (BAS) are essential for managing the complex operation sof commercial, institutional, residential, and industrial buildings. They control everything from HVAC and lighting to security and energy management. But as technology changes, so do BAS systems – that’s why the Egan Company team has your back on all things upgrades. 

If you have a legacy BAS system, it’s important to consider upgrading to a newer system. A modern BAS system can help you save energy, improve comfort, increase security, and reduce downtime. It can also help you meet current regulations and avoid compliance issues.

Here are some of the benefits of upgrading your outdated BAS:

• Increased energy efficiency: a modern BAS system can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature and humidity levels in your building based on occupancy and weather conditions. This can lead to significant cost savings on your energy bills.
• Improved comfort: a modern BAS system can help you maintain comfortable temperatures and humidity levels in your building, even when the weather outside is extreme. This can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity.
• Enhanced security: a modern BAS system can help you improve the security of your building by monitoring access points, detecting unauthorized activity, and controlling access to sensitive areas. This can help you protect your people, property, and data from unauthorized access.
• Reduced downtime: a modern BAS system is more reliable and less likely to experience downtime than an outdated system. This can help you avoid disruptions to your operations and inconvenience to your tenants or customers.
• Compliance with regulations: a modern BAS system can help you comply with current regulations, such as those governing energy efficiency and security. This can help you avoid fines or other penalties.

If you’re considering upgrading your outdated BAS, be sure to work with a qualified BAS integrator that can help you choose the right system for your needs and budget as well as complete the  installation and commissioning process. Contact Egan Company today to learn more about how we can help you upgrade your outdated BAS and improve the efficiency, comfort, security, and compliance of your building.