Tips for Installing Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

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Expert Tips for Cutting, Threading & Bending Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

When it comes to industrial and corrosive environments, stainless steel rigid conduit systems are the go-to choice for many electrical professionals. Here at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area, we’re excited to share our expertise on this robust electrical conduit option.

Stainless steel rigid conduit boasts a greater wall thickness than IMC or EMT, making it ideal for demanding applications. Its threaded connections not only ensure electrically continuous joints but also allow for easy installation and system durability. So, let’s debunk a common myth right off the bat: working with stainless steel conduit in the field isn’t as challenging as you might think!

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need specialized threaders or benders to work with and install rigid conduit. In most case, common field tools will do the job just fine. This means you can save time, labor, and costs without compromising on quality. While there are a few special considerations for stainless steel, the installation process is quite similar to working with galvanized rigid conduit (GRC).

To ensure your stainless-steel rigid conduit system performs as expected, it’s crucial to follow all relevant National Electric Code (NEC) guidelines. Don’t forget to review the operating and safety instructions that come with your equipment, too. And proper handling during pre-installation alterations like cutting, threading, and bending is key. If these steps aren’t done correctly, you might find yourself facing a more difficult, time-consuming, or costly installation process. Even worse, it could impact the longevity of your conduit system.

In this article the expert stainless steel rigid conduit suppliers at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area provide some tips for cutting, threading, or bending rigid conduit in the field.

Getting Started Installing Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

Before you dive into cutting, threading, or bending stainless steel conduit, there’s an important rule of thumb to remember: all equipment that comes into contact with the conduit should be either new or used exclusively on stainless steel. This includes bending shoes and vises. Why? Using equipment that has processed ferrous material can transfer free iron to the stainless steel, leading to rust and corrosion down the line.

And, of course, always be sure to install rigid conduit in accordance with NEC guidelines. When you’re facing unique installation challenges that require field alterations, it’s best to review NFPA 70 (National Electric Code®) and consult local experts, including your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This extra step ensures your conduit system is safe, effective, and built to last.

Additionally, be sure to purchase your stainless steel rigid conduit from a reputable supplier, like Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area. This ensures that you get authentic parts of the highest quality, at the best possible prices. As with anything, you get what you pay for – and conduit from less-than-reputable sources may be made of substandard materials that don’t hold up to your projects exacting standards.

Tips for Cutting Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

Precision is key when cutting rigid conduit. Even small measurement errors can add up, significantly impacting your overall installation. Here’s a pro tip: always mount your rigid conduit firmly and securely in a vise before cutting. Yes, it takes a bit more time, but skipping this step can lead to disaster.

Cutting unsecured rigid conduit isn’t just unsafe – it can result in crooked or rough cuts that make threading and assembly much more challenging, if not impossible.

Tips for Threading Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

If you’re using threaded fittings, proper threading is crucial for secure connections. The good news is that you can use standard threaders on stainless steel rigid conduit. However, keep in mind that standard dies will wear out faster, especially when working with larger conduit sizes (2-½”, 3″, 4″). Keep a close eye on your dies and replace them if they show signs of wear.

Here’s another insider tip: when threading stainless conduit with standard dies, it’s best to use a new die set. Dies previously used on non-stainless pipe can cause material transfer, potentially leading to corrosion down the line.

You can thread rigid conduit using either manual or powered tooling. Manual tooling works well for smaller trade sizes of pipe (½” – 2″). Most threading equipment comes with detailed manuals – keep these handy and refer to them throughout the process for best results.

Tips for Bending Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

While manufacturers often offer factory-bent elbows, the diverse configurations of conduit installations mean you’ll likely need to make some bends in the field from time to time. With experience and the right equipment, you can fabricate various bend shapes quickly and efficiently, right on-site.

The NEC allows for up to 360° of bends between pulling points, but remember: every degree of bend makes wire pulling more challenging and increases wire strain. As a best practice, aim to make as few bends as possible, and avoid making any single bend greater than 90°.

Before you start bending, double-check that your equipment is rated for use with rigid conduit. This precaution helps reduce the risk of equipment damage and accidents. Power benders, in particular, generate a lot of potential energy and can cause severe injuries if used improperly.

You can bend stainless steel using a standard rigid conduit bender, but be prepared for a greater degree of spring-back, especially with larger sizes (2″ or larger). Most bending equipment comes with detailed manuals – keep these on hand and refer to them before starting and throughout the process.

Final Tips for Installing Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit

We can’t stress this enough: when working with stainless steel conduit, all equipment that comes into contact with it should be either new or used exclusively on stainless steel. This includes bending shoes and vises. Equipment that has processed ferrous material can contaminate the stainless steel surface with free iron, leading to rust and corrosion.

Here’s some more good news: skilled industrial electricians can install stainless steel conduit without labor-intensive procedures like sealing, sprays, paint, or surface treatments. This reduces the maintenance burden on facility owners and operators, cutting down on periodic inspections and upkeep costs. When installed correctly, a stainless steel rigid conduit system can last as long as the facility itself, even in corrosive environments.

For unique installation challenges requiring field alterations, always review NFPA 70 (National Electric Code) and consult local experts, including your AHJ. This ensures your conduit system is safe, effective, and built to stand the test of time.

Stainless Steel Rigid Conduit Suppliers | Detroit Area

At Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive range of stainless steel rigid conduit products. Our inventory includes rigid conduit (also known as heavywall), nipples, and 90° elbows. But that’s not all – we also stock the widest array of additional fittings you’ll need to construct a complete stainless steel conduit system.

Whether you’re tackling a new installation or upgrading an existing system, our knowledgeable electrical supply staff is here to help you select the right products for your specific needs. We understand the unique challenges of working with stainless steel rigid conduit and are committed to providing not just high-quality products, but also the expertise to ensure your project’s success.

Don’t let misconceptions about stainless steel rigid conduit installation hold you back. With the right tools, techniques, and support from Team Electrical Supply, you can confidently tackle even the most demanding industrial electrical installations. If you are in the Detroit area, or anywhere in Southeast Michigan, contact us today to learn more about our stainless steel rigid conduit offerings and how we can support your next project. Let’s work together to build electrical systems that stand the test of time, even in the most challenging environments.

Rigid Conduit Supplier | Detroit Area: 313-874-1000

The Benefits of Prefabricated Electrical Conduit

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The construction industry is continually evolving, finding new ways to improve efficiency, cut turnaround times, and reduce costs. Prefabrication is one very rapidly rising trend in various building sectors, including electrical construction, that offers many of these advantages.

Incorporating prefabricated electrical conduit into electrical installation projects is becoming increasingly popular as a means of reducing labor costs while speeding up completion times.

At Team Electrical Supply, premier suppliers electrical products in the Detroit area, we provide a wide selection of electrical conduit to help streamline your projects and enhance overall efficiency. In this article we explain what prefabricated electrical conduit is and discuss its many benefits for your electrical construction project.

What is Prefabricated Electrical Conduit?

Prefabricated electrical conduit refers to electrical conduit systems that are assembled off-site in a controlled environment – and then transported to the construction site for easy installation. This method involves designing and manufacturing conduit sections, bends, and fittings off-site in advance, ensuring that they fit precisely when installed on-site. Prefabrication can apply to various types of conduit, including metal, PVC, and flexible conduit systems.

The prefabricated electrical conduit process begins with detailed planning and design, followed by the fabrication of conduit assemblies according to exact project specifications. These assemblies are then shipped to the construction site, ready for quick and efficient installation. Prefabrication reduces the amount of work required on-site, resulting in significant time and cost savings while enhancing overall project quality and safety.

Benefits of Prefabricated Electrical Conduit

Prefabricated Electrical Conduit Saves Money

One of the most significant advantages of using prefabricated electrical conduit is the cost savings it offers. Completing parts of projects off-site is more efficient, saving both time and money. With prefabrication, much of the labor-intensive work is done in a controlled environment, reducing the need for extensive on-site labor. This streamlined process can result in more than 50% cost savings on materials – and labor savings of up to 60% or more.

By minimizing on-site work, prefabrication allows for smaller crews and the use of less equipment, further reducing expenses. Additionally, the precise fabrication of conduit assemblies ensures that materials are used efficiently, minimizing waste, and cutting down on unnecessary costs.

Prefabricated Electrical Conduit Increases Safety

Safety is a paramount concern on any construction site, and prefabricated electrical conduit can significantly enhance on-site safety. By reducing the amount of work performed on-site, prefabrication minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries associated with traditional conduit installation methods. The controlled environment of a fabrication facility also allows for better adherence to safety protocols and reduces exposure to hazardous conditions.

Moreover, with less on-site labor required, there is a reduced risk of electrical shocks, falls, and other common construction-related accidents. This is especially true in elevated or other high risk construction projects. The less work that has to be performed at higher elevations or in dangerous conditions, the less risk to workers.

Prefabricated conduit systems are designed and assembled and inspected to meet stringent safety standards before they even arrive on-site, ensuring that they provide a reliable and secure solution for electrical installations.

Prefabricated Electrical Conduit Mitigates Extreme Conditions

Extreme weather conditions can also pose significant challenges to on-site construction work. Prefabricated electrical conduit helps mitigate the challenges of cold, heat, wind, rain, or other inclement weather by allowing much of the work to be done off-site in a temperature-controlled environment. This not only ensures that the conduit assemblies are produced under optimal conditions but also reduces delays and accidents caused by adverse weather.

By performing the fabrication in a controlled setting, the risk of weather-related disruptions is minimized, allowing projects to stay on schedule. This is particularly beneficial in regions with harsh climates, where on-site work can be severely impacted by extreme temperatures, precipitation, or snow.

Prefabricated Electrical Conduit Reduces Project Time

Prefabricated electrical conduit can significantly increase installation speed. Since the conduit assemblies are pre-made and ready for installation upon arrival at the site, the time required for on-site work is drastically reduced. This allows projects to meet rigid timelines and ensures that deadlines are consistently met.

The efficiency of prefabrication enables faster completion of electrical installations, which can be critical for projects with tight schedules or those that need to be operational quickly. The expedited process not only saves time but also reduces the overall duration of construction, leading to quicker project turnover and earlier revenue generation.

Prefabricated Electrical Conduit Improves Consistency

Consistency is key to maintaining high-quality standards in construction projects. Prefabricated electrical conduit improves consistency by ensuring that all conduit assemblies are manufactured to the same exact and precise specifications. This uniformity reduces the likelihood of errors and discrepancies during installation, resulting in a more seamless and reliable electrical system.

With prefabrication, each conduit section is crafted using the same materials, methods, and quality controls, leading to a uniform appearance and performance across the entire project. This level of consistency is challenging to achieve with traditional on-site fabrication, where variations in workmanship and materials can lead to inconsistencies.

Other Benefits of Using Prefabricated Electrical Conduit

In addition to the primary benefits mentioned above, prefabricated electrical conduit offers several other advantages. For example, it allows for better coordination and integration with other building systems, as the prefabricated components can be designed to fit seamlessly with plumbing, HVAC, and structural elements.

Prefabrication also facilitates easier modifications and future expansions, as the standardized conduit assemblies can be quickly adapted or extended to accommodate changes in the building’s layout or electrical requirements. This flexibility is particularly valuable in commercial and industrial settings where scalability is essential.

Applications of Prefabricated Electrical Conduit

Prefabricated electrical conduit is suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries. In commercial buildings, it is commonly used for office spaces, retail stores, and hotels, where rapid installation and minimal disruption are critical. In industrial settings, prefabricated conduit systems are ideal for manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and distribution centers, where safety, efficiency, and durability are paramount.

Healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and data centers also benefit from the use of prefabricated electrical conduit, as these environments require reliable and high-quality electrical systems. The versatility and adaptability of prefabricated conduit make it a valuable solution for virtually any commercial or industrial project.

Electrical Conduit Supplier | Detroit Area

Prefabricated electrical conduit offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, increased safety, faster installation, and improved consistency. At Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area, we provide a wide selection of electrical conduit and other electrical construction supplies to ensure your project comes in on time and within budget.

Our expert team can help you choose the right conduit solutions to meet your specific needs, enhancing the efficiency and quality of your electrical installations. Contact Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area for the best prices and personalized assistance with all of your electrical supply needs.

Detroit Electrical Conduit Supplier: 313.874.1000

DOE’s New Standards for Distribution Transformers

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Department of Energy Unveils New Standards for Distribution Transformers

In an effort to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption, the Department of Energy (DOE) regularly updates its published standards for energy conservation for certain electrical products. In April of this year, the DOE announced updated energy conservation standards for distribution transformers.

This move aligns with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), which mandates periodic reassessment of standards to determine if more rigorous requirements are both technologically feasible and economically reasonable. The goal is to achieve significant energy savings across the energy industry, without also imposing undue financial hardship on contractors or consumers.

In this article the experts at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area discuss the new Department of Energy conservation standards for distribution transformers.

What is a Distribution Transformer?

A distribution transformer is an essential component in the electrical power distribution system. Its primary function is to step down the high voltage electricity that is transmitted from power plants to a lower voltage that is suitable for use in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.

This voltage reduction effected by distribution transformers is necessary because the high voltage used for efficient long-distance transmission is too powerful and dangerous for direct use by consumers and most commercial electrical devices.

How Distribution Transformers Work

Distribution transformers operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction, which was discovered by Michael Faraday in the early 19th century. The basic design of a transformer consists of two sets of wire coils, known as windings, which are wrapped around a magnetic core. These windings are called the primary winding and the secondary winding.

The primary winding is connected to the high-voltage power lines. When alternating current (AC) flows through this winding, it generates a varying magnetic field around the core. The magnetic core, typically made of laminated silicon steel, serves to channel the magnetic field generated by the primary winding efficiently. This magnetic field induces a voltage in the secondary winding. The secondary winding is connected to the lower voltage power distribution lines that deliver electricity to the end consumers.

The number of turns in the secondary winding relative to the primary winding determines the amount of voltage reduction. For instance, if the primary winding has ten times more turns than the secondary winding, the transformer will reduce the voltage by a factor of ten.

What Are Low & Medium Voltage Dry-Type Distribution Transformers?

Distribution transformers have different cooling methods to ensure efficient operation and longevity. The most common types of distribution transformers are oil-filled and dry-type transformers. Oil-filled transformers use oil as a coolant to dissipate heat generated during operation, while dry-type transformers use air or other non-liquid mediums.

Dry-type transformers are often preferred in indoor and environmentally sensitive locations because they pose less risk of fire and environmental contamination.

Low and medium voltage dry-type distribution transformers are types of transformers that do not use oil for cooling. Instead, they are air-cooled. Low-voltage dry-type transformers typically have an input voltage of 600 volts or less, while medium-voltage dry-type transformers have an input voltage of up to 34.5 kV and an output voltage of 600 volts or less. These transformers are commonly used in a variety of settings due to their safety, reliability, and low maintenance requirements.

Common Uses of Distribution Transformers

Distribution transformers are used in various applications to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of electricity. They are essential in residential areas, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. These transformers step down high voltage electricity from power lines to a lower voltage that can be safely used by consumers and equipment. They are found in utility poles, underground distribution systems, and within buildings to manage electricity distribution.

By stepping down the voltage, these transformers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the electrical distribution system. They also help reduce energy losses that occur during transmission and distribution, ensuring that consumers receive reliable and consistent electrical power.

Distribution Transformers & Energy Consumption

Distribution transformers also play a significant role in the overall energy consumption of the power distribution network. Proper cooling and placement of these transformers are essential for efficient energy distribution and maintaining the integrity of the electrical grid. Inefficiencies in these transformers can lead to substantial energy losses, which is why improving their efficiency is crucial. Energy-efficient transformers reduce losses, thereby saving energy, lowering operational costs, and minimizing the environmental impact associated with energy production and consumption.

DOE New Energy Standards for Distribution Transformers

On April 4th, the DOE announced new energy conservation standards for low and medium voltage dry-type transformers. These standards aim to reduce energy losses by varying degrees depending on the type of transformer, with implementation set for 2029.

For low-voltage dry-type distribution transformers, the DOE has set a target to reduce losses by 30% for single-phase transformers and 20% for three-phase transformers. These transformers have an input voltage of 600 volts or less and are air-cooled.

For medium-voltage dry-type distribution transformers, the new standards aim to reduce losses by 10%, which is the highest level of energy efficiency improvement that is both technologically achievable and economically justified. These transformers have an input voltage of up to 34.5 kV and an output voltage of 600 volts or less.

Although the DOE mentioned a 20% reduction in the body of the document, the actual efficiency improvement compared to 2016 levels is 10%.

These updates mark a significant shift from an earlier proposal that suggested reductions of up to 50% starting in 2027. The revised standards represent a balanced approach that takes into account energy savings balanced with technological feasibility and economic viability.

Distribution Transformer Supplier | Detroit Area

At Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments in energy standards and regulations. We offer a wide selection of distribution transformers and other electrical products to ensure your projects always meet regulatory requirements, including DOE standards.

The team of experts at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area is here to help you choose the right electrical products and stay on top of key timelines, milestones, and electrical product updates – while maintaining compliance with revised regulations and DOE rulings.

Contact Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit area for expert advice and the best prices on all of your electrical supply needs.

Detroit Area Distribution Transformer Supplier: 313.874.1000

Fiberglass Conduit vs. PVC Conduit

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Comparing Fiberglass Conduit and PVC Conduit

Due to increasing raw materials costs, disruptions in the supply chain, and higher freight costs, the price of PVC has climbed steadily in the past year while the available supply has decreased. For some contractors this means that PVC electrical conduit is either no longer available, or not within their budget.

But since most projects can’t be delayed or stalled, many electrical contractors are turning fiberglass electrical conduit as a suitable alternative to PVC conduit. Fiberglass conduit is not only typically much lower priced than PVC conduit, but installation costs are also lower due to less labor needed to install fiberglass conduit.

In this article the electrical conduit experts at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit, MI area compare and contrast PVC and fiberglass electrical conduit – and reveal some surprising advantages of choosing fiberglass for your electrical conduit needs.

Industries that can Use Fiberglass Conduit

If your industry doesn’t typically use Fiberglass Conduit, you may be wondering if it is a suitable alternative to PVC for your needs. Many people are actually surprised to learn that fiberglass conduit is often a stronger and more durable conduit than PVC. Fiberglass conduit is also more corrosion resistant to many chemicals.

As a result, many data centers bridges, tunnels, utilities, chemical plants, and wastewater treatment facilities choose fiberglass for their conduit needs.

PVC vs Fiberglass Conduit Installation

Fiberglass conduit installs in about one-third the time of PVC conduit. The NECA Manual Labor Rates reports that installing 100 foot of 6” diameter conduit takes 9 hours for fiberglass conduit, and 24 hours for PVC SCH 40 installation.

Obviously, this could result in dramatically reduced installation labor costs if fiberglass conduit is chosen over PVC.

PVC vs Fiberglass Conduit Weight

Fiberglass conduit also weighs significantly less than traditional SCH 40 PVC conduit.

This means that lighter-weight fiberglass conduit will not add much weight to supporting structures, compared to heavier PV Conduit systems. One hundred feet of 4” SW fiberglass conduit only weighs only 72 pounds – compared to 231 pounds for the same amount of SCH 40 PVC conduit.

Additionally, fiberglass conduit has a lower cable coefficient of friction (.38) compared to PVC (.90) – so fiberglass conduit can be pulled longer. So, fewer pull boxes are required for long runs using fiberglass conduit – providing even more savings on material.

Integrating Fiberglass Conduit

Fiberglass elbows are often provided with PVC couplings for use when transitioning to underground PVC conduits. While PVC or fiberglass male/female adapters can be used to transition from fiberglass to GRC and PVC-coated rigid steel conduit. For fiberglass-to-fiberglass connections, however, only fiberglass coupling is recommended.

PVC vs Fiberglass Conduit and Heat

Fiberglass conduit does not burn-through like PVC – meaning fewer conduit repairs.

And while PVC, steel, and aluminum conduit can be vulnerable to melting or welding the affected cables during fault conditions, fiberglass conduit does not have this problem. The natural heat and fire resistance properties of fiberglass mean that it will not melt or weld the affected cable to the inside of the conduit during fault conditions.

In high-heat situations, for example, PVC SCH 40 and 80 can only withstand temperatures of 40 degrees F to 150 degrees F. But Champion fiberglass conduit, for example, can withstand temperatures of minus-60 degrees F to +250 degrees F.

Fiberglass also does not get weak or brittle when exposed to freezing temperatures. In fact, fiberglass actually gets slightly stronger in cold temperatures – making it an excellent choice for outdoor conduit applications that will be exposed to cold Michigan winters.

PVC and Fiberglass Conduit Distributor | Detroit Area

In many ways, as demonstrated above, fiberglass conduit is a superior product to PVC conduit. Fiberglass is not only stronger and more durable but offers a greater range of temperature tolerance, is heat resistant, and offers increased longevity over PVC. Additionally, fiberglass weighs less, and its installation costs are significantly lower.

If you are interested in exploring fiberglass conduit for your next construction project, new build, or upgrade, the electrical product experts at Team Electrical Sales in the Detroit area are here to help!

At Team Electrical Sales we pride ourselves on representing the highest quality of electrical products and the best customer service in the industry. Call us today for all of your electrical conduit needs and we will help you find the products that are right for you at the best possible prices.

Call: 313-874-1000 or Click Here to Request a Conduit Quote

Importance of Surge Protection

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Panel Level Surge Protection Offers Optimal Protection

Many people erroneously think that power surges only occur during a storm or a lightning strike – but this is absolutely not true! There are a wide variety of factors that can cause power surges – many of which you may not even be aware of. And these ‘unseen’ power surges can ruin thousands of dollars of personal and commercial electronic devices.

Installing a panel level surge protection device is by far the best way to head-off transient power surges and spikes before they destroy your electronic devices and systems. In this article, the electrical experts at Team Electrical Sales in the Detroit, MI area explain the causes of power surges and spikes – and discuss the steps you can take to protect your devices with proper surge protection.

Causes of Electrical Surges

Yes, storms and lighting can cause power surges – but the daily supply of electricity to your house may also be fluctuating without your knowledge due to “dirty power”.  This is the electromagnetic “noise” on the main wiring of a structure that can result in low power, voltage variations, frequency variations, and surges.

Also keep in mind that no matter how new your structure or devices are, the electrical system supplying power to your house or business is probably built on an older, antiquated electrical grid.  In many cities, “grid switching” by the utility company causes invisible and undetected surges that can damage electronic devices.  “Grid switching” occurs many times a day when the utility company channels more electricity to areas where and when it is needed and reduces energy delivery during less busy times. Typically, grids will direct more power to businesses during the day and then “switch” the grid to supply more electricity to residential areas at night. And these ongoing “switches” cause power fluctuations that can damage devices.

Why Many Power Surges Are Not Detected

Most modern electronics have some limited protection “built in” that helps control minor power surges and spikes. Usually this is done with a small component called a Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) that is soldered onto the electrical circuit board.  MOVs absorb power surges and spikes – but only up to a certain level.  So, when a power surge occurs that takes only milliseconds – faster than the human eye can see – the MOV handles it without interrupting the functioning of your electronic device.

But eventually, when an electronic device stops working “for no reason,” it is often because the Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) has failed due to repeated transient power spike and surges.

Of course, the utility companies are aware of these spikes and surges – but the average home or business owner has no practical way of monitoring these power fluctuations. So, the power company will typically never admit fault or responsibility when a device fails.  And, since many manufacturers of electronics are continually trying to lower their manufacturing costs, they often install cheaper metal oxide varistors that have lower quality levels and protection abilities.

In fact, using inferior MOVs in electronic products can be advantageous for manufacturers – as it means consumers may have to replace their devices more often!

Panel Level Surge Protection

The fact that Metal Oxide Varistors are limited in their capacity is a primary reason that any building or facility also needs surge protection! Installing a panel level (facility wide) surge protection device, can head-off transient surges and spikes before they get to valuable and important electronic devices.

With a high-quality, panel level surge protection device ALL of your electronics are protected – regardless of what the utility company does, or the quality of MOV’s built into your electronic devices.  Installing high-capacity surge protection at the panel means that not only are devices plugged into outlets protected – but everything in the building (lighting, HVAC, security systems, etc.) are also protected from surges and spikes.

Additionally, by heading off power spikes and surges before they reach your devices’ MOVs, equipment will last longer. Not to mention the fact that failure of computers and mobile devices due to power damage can result in loss of irreplaceable data, documents, photos and more.

The cost of panel level surge protection devices is surprisingly affordable. In many cases, it will cost less to install panel level surge protection and protect all of the devices and electrical systems in your home or business, than it would to replace a single TV or appliance. In our book, this is the cheapest ‘insurance’ and assurance you can buy!

Surge Protection Sales & Distribution | Detroit Area

Panel surge protection offers security, protecting every electrical device, appliance, and system in your structure – saving you both the cost and the inconvenience of having to replace expensive and valuable electronics.

Team Electrical Supply in the greater Detroit, MI area offers a full line of residential and commercial panel surge protection devices to protect everything in your home or business.

If you are building or updating a home or business, contact Team Electrical Supply in the greater Detroit, MI area for all of your surge protection needs.

Call: 313-874-1000 or Click Here to Request a Surge Protection Quote

Copper Prices Rise in Electrical Distribution Industry

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Zero Emissions Creates Copper Price Volatility for Electrical Distributors

In the electrical distribution industry, copper pricing has always been volatile – especially in construction-oriented electrical distribution markets. And because copper is a key component of many electrical products, copper price fluctuations can affect commercial construction profitability significantly.

For decades, the US construction market was the driving force behind the copper market and its price variations. But the recent impact of China’s increasing demand for copper has added increased scarcity and price volatility to the cost of electrical components containing copper.

Now a third competitor with high demand for copper has entered the market: electric vehicle (EV) and alternative energy manufacturing.  In this article the electrical distribution experts at Team Electrical Supply in the Detroit, MI area take a look at what this means for copper supply and cost issues in the long-term.

Outlook for Copper in the Electrical Distribution Industry

Copper is the primary metal used in electrification products. Examining copper’s long-term supply and demand outlook, experts are predicting some problems in the next ten years. They are estimating that copper demand will double over the next decade.

This skyrocketing demand for copper products is chiefly being driven by the move from petroleum to electrification as the global market’s primary energy source, as the world seeks to combat climate change.  Both the international scientific community and the United Nations have set energy goals of net zero emissions by 2050.

But these zero-emission electrification technologies – including solar, wind, EV, etc. – will consume copper at exponentially increasing rates. Experts fear that copper demand will eventually outstrip supply, causing prices to escalate as availability becomes scarcer.

History of Copper Usage in the Electrical Distribution Industry

Statistics reveal a long-term rise in copper prices from the years 1975 through 2022. But a sustained occurrence of copper prices doubling is unprecedented. A potential doubling of copper usage could lead to a doubling of copper prices, which has serious ramifications for the electrical distribution market.

Experts estimate that copper wire and cable currently make up 10% to 15% of the total electrical distribution market. If the price of copper doubles, they project that the electrical distribution copper wire market will grow from a current estimate of 14 to 20 billion dollars to 28 to 40 billion dollars within the next ten years.

Forecasted Copper Usage in the Electrical Distribution Industry

Offshore and onshore wind, tidal power, solar energy, biomass, geothermal energy, bioenergy, electric grid, nuclear, hydro, and battery storage will all contribute to increasingly heavy demand for copper in the electrical distribution industry in the coming years.

Additionally, electric vehicles (EV) consume eight to ten times the amount of copper that a combustion engine uses. These “new users” of copper will become competitors for the current copper supply which is currently mainly construction-driven in the electrical distribution market.

This increased demand, coupled with less supply, results in price increases by the mines and manufacturers – which is then passed to distributors and contractors – hence making electrical projects more expensive.

Implications for Electrical Distributors

The takeaway is that the electrical distribution industry is ushering in a major economic transition. As electrification becomes the country’s (and the world’s) primary energy source electrical distributor, contractors and anyone else in the energy sector needs to remain aware of what is happening.

Experts remind that it is important to continue to price average inventory and maintain high turns with “tight inventory management”, buying and selling at market price. And as copper prices continue to increase in the next decade, distributor and consumers are warned to expect market changes and budget accordingly.

Industrial reshoring, sustainable energy growth, and government investments into climate-change technologies means this copper supply and demand issue is inevitable.

Electrical Distribution & Supply | Detroit, MI

As always, Team Electrical Supply remains your electrical distribution partner in the Detroit, Michigan area. We keep our finger on the pulse of changes and developments in the electrical supply industry to ensure that our customers always have the electrical products they need at prices they can afford.

Call: 313-874-1000 or Click Here to Request a Quote

Interior Lighting Design

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New Lighting Products Expand Design Options

When it comes to the aesthetics of lighting, the constraints of conventional “T-Grid” ceiling schemes in commercial buildings have been the bane of architects and interior designers alike. Designers of retail and office environments have long wished they could branch out into more creative and inspired lighting configurations – but were always thwarted by the grid-like layout of traditional ceilings.

Integrated Ceiling Lighting Systems

However, a new category of ceiling has emerged that is lending itself to new and exciting lighting possibilities for commercial areas. Called “integrated ceiling systems,” these new ceilings concentrate lighting (and other utilities) in narrow bands running the length of the room – giving architects and designers more freedom to create imaginative layouts, while still allowing for standard maintenance operations.

Now function no longer triumphs over form, and a variety of aesthetically pleasing lighting possibilities are now a reality – bringing inspiration to illuminating all types of areas. State-of-the-art offerings on LED technologies combine band ceiling systems with specially designed compatible LED luminaires to free design concepts from being tied to a grid pattern.

Designer LED Luminaires & Light Fixtures

Additionally, the latest LED technologies offer much greater freedom in fixture design. A growing array of both linear luminaires and illuminated pendants, are now available to give the architect and interior designer a wide selection of exciting “bulb-less” lighting options. These new LED designs are thin, gorgeously sculpted, and very chic – making them highly desirable for upscale retail spaces, hotels and restaurants.

This new generation of LED luminaires completely transform look of any space. Thin, uniformly illuminated & suspended from the ceiling – a transparent band that surrounds the edge of the fixture gives the illusion that the light is “floating.”

And, in addition to being more attractive, LED luminaires can drastically reduce energy bills, by lowering an establishment’s lighting electricity costs by a full 75%.

Both more elegant and more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or fluorescent fixtures, the new array of designer LED fixtures is in high demand in modern, upscale and progressive environments across the U.S. and across the globe.