September 2023

This month’s cover story by Nathan Heitzinger, Arandeep Singh and Galen S. Hoeflinger from SmithGroup delves into the use of BIM with a concept called integrated project delivery to improve how all the different parties work together during a project’s lifecycle.

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Refining Health-Care Design with BIM and IPD

Building information modeling tools and their methods of use have changed drastically with the increased use of the integrated project delivery process.

September 4, 2023

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Hot Water System Design for High-Rise Buildings

Designing domestic hot water systems for these buildings has challenges, but several best practices can help ensure success.

September 4, 2023

Plumbing engineers must consider many things when designing a high-rise building’s hot water heating and supply system. Understanding the different piping systems and using industry best practices will assist in a successful project.

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The Benefits of Diaphragm Switches on Commercial Sump Pumps

These switches are ideal for small pits, spaces limited radially and areas requiring reliable, proven operation.

September 4, 2023

Belowgrade spaces are susceptible to excess water, which is a big problem for building owners. Sump pumps are essential to reduce water damage and mold, but must occupy the smallest space possible while operating quietly. One equipped with a diaphragm switch often overcomes many space issues while providing reliable operation.

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A Q&A with ThermOmegaTech’s Tom Ruggierio

The CircuitSolver thermostatic balancing valve has been overcoming water balancing issues for more than a decade.

September 4, 2023

For more than a decade, the CircuitSolver thermostatic balancing valve has helped plumbing engineers and contractors overcome the challenges inherent in manual balancing valves. This Q&A explains how the valve was developed and how it has evolved.

Women in Leadership

Trust Is Important

Your team can lose confidence in you as a leader; regaining it requires treating team members with honesty, integrity and respect.

September 4, 2023

Jill Imig, PE, EDAC

Jill Imig explains her use of Stephen M.R. Covey’s trust principles to strengthen confidence in her as a leader by treating team members with honesty, integrity and respect.

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FPE Corner

Underground Fire Protection Design Issues, Part 2

Preplanning and coordination of standpipe systems, fire pumps and pump controllers are crucial to minimize delays and reduce change orders.

September 4, 2023

In the second part of this series, we look at the essential elements and equipment of fire protection design, such as standpipe systems, fire pumps and pump controllers. Preplanning and coordination are crucial to minimize delays and reduce change orders when constructing a fire sprinkler system.

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Collaborative Health Care Design

Thermostatic Balancing Valves Vs. Flow-Rate Balancing Valves

Understanding the characteristics and operation of these valves allows individuals to ensure optimal performance, comfort and energy efficiency.

September 4, 2023

John Gregory

These valves have different functions in a hot water system; make sure you understand how they work so you can select the appropriate valve for your client’s application.