Category: J & P Electrical Company

Electrical Tap Boxes

Image of an electrical tap box, also known as a splitter box.

An electrical tap box is a crucial device used in both portable and permanent power distribution setups. Often referred to as splitter boxes or pull boxes, these units are specialized junction boxes that feature a backplate equipped with copper busbars for each electrical phase and mechanical lugs. These lugs are designed to connect with large cables, such as those 500 MCM and above, enabling the distribution of power to multiple smaller cables, like 2/0 or 4/0 AWG, leading to various power distribution units.

The primary function of a tap box is to serve as a central point for connecting larger feeder cables, facilitating more efficient power distribution. Tap boxes are available in single-phase or three-phase configurations ranging from 400A to 3000A. They are engineered to provide a high-quality, safe, and sustainable alternative for easy connection and distribution of large wires and cables. These boxes offer a superior connection point compared to standard pull-boxes on the market, aiming to enhance the efficiency and safety of electrical power distribution.

Selecting the Right Electrical Tap Box

Choosing a suitable electrical tap or splitter box hinges primarily on its purpose. The optimal tap box configuration varies significantly depending on its use. Key factors to consider include the size of both incoming and outgoing cables, required voltage, total amperage for the load, and any potential limitations, such as wall space availability, the number of units requiring power, and budget constraints. Identifying these needs and constraints is crucial for tailoring the electrical tap box to your project’s requirements.

Electrical Tap Boxes in the Commercial Sector

Tap boxes are essential for commercial and industrial settings, especially where standby generators are central during power outages. Facilities like airports, supermarkets, hospitals, and data centers often house electrical rooms with critical components such as automatic transfer switches and transformers to maintain power. Additionally, these establishments frequently conduct load bank testing on generators to verify emergency power readiness.

Installing a tap box simplifies connecting cables to necessary units for maintenance and load bank testing. However, testing standby generators effectively requires more than just a tap box. Essential equipment includes the standby or portable generator, a load banking station, appropriate cables, and the tap box for connecting larger wires and redistributing power to various units.

For Tap Box Inquiries and More, Contact J&P Electrical!

The benefits offered by our electrical tap boxes significantly surpass the initial investment, providing you with a durable junction box that facilitates safe and efficient power distribution. Get in touch with J&P Electrical today for all your substantial electrical requirements.

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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/

The Difference Between Bus Duct and Busbar

Busbars refer to metallic bars or strips which carry electrical current within electrical switchgear. These busbars are incorporated into bus ducts, a type of sheet metal duct that houses a sequence of busbars. Bus ducts offer an efficient and adaptable alternative to conventional conduits for electrical installations, simplifying the process of installation and modification.

Bus ducts are commonly used in environments where the busbars might be susceptible to damage or exposed to weather conditions. A standard bus duct system includes multiple copper or aluminum conductors, known as ‘buses’, arranged parallelly and connected to a power source.

What is Busbar Used For?

Busbars, available in several forms with distinct advantages and some limitations, are primarily used for electrical load carrying and heat dissipation. The most prevalent type is the solid busbar, which is the most cost-effective and made from a single piece of metal like copper or aluminum. In the United States, copper busbars are preferred, while aluminum is commonly used elsewhere. These busbars connect different components in electrical panels and switchgear. Due to their copper or aluminum construction, they are highly conductive and offer better resistance to corrosion.

Busbars find applications in various settings across numerous industries, including roles in:

  • Electrical switchgear
  • Power distribution systems
  • Motor control centers
  • Battery banks
  • Solar panels
  • Wind turbines

What is Bus Duct Used For?

Bus ducts are used primarily for the efficient distribution of electrical power in various settings, particularly in industrial and commercial buildings. Bus duct provides a high degree of electrical efficiency for both low- and high-amperage conditions. It’s also incredibly versatile, thanks to advancements such as elbows and offsets. These developments allow bus duct to adapt to directional changes.

Bus ducts are widely used in a variety of industries due to their efficiency in distributing electrical power, especially in large-scale facilities or where power requirements are substantial. Some of the key industries that commonly use bus ducts include:

  • Manufacturing and Industrial Plants
  • Data Centers
  • Commercial Buildings
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Educational Institutions
  • Energy Sector
  • Entertainment and Sports Venues
  • Transportation Hubs

Why is Bus Duct Important for Conducting Electrical Power?

The significance of bus ducts in conducting electrical power lies in several key aspects:

  • Reliability: Bus ducts ensure a steady and dependable power supply to electrical devices and systems, minimizing the likelihood of power disruptions and equipment malfunctions.
  • Safety: The metal enclosure of bus ducts safeguards electrical connections and cables from damage. It also helps prevent accidental electrical contact, enhancing safety for both individuals and equipment.
  • Ease of Maintenance: Designed for straightforward access, bus ducts facilitate quick repairs and component replacements, thereby reducing downtime and maintenance expenses.
  • Space Efficiency: Compared to conventional cable trays, bus ducts occupy less space, making them suitable for areas with limited room.
  • Flexibility: Bus ducts offer the convenience of being easily modified or extended to meet changes in electrical system requirements, thereby providing a versatile solution for various building types and equipment.
  • Energy Efficiency: Bus ducts enable more effective power distribution control, which can prevent circuit overloads and lower energy consumption.

Looking for bus duct or other heavy electrical parts/equipment? We have a large 50,000 sq. feet facility with experienced and motivated staff; if we don’t have the product you are looking for, we’ll find it. When you want quality equipment at a reasonable price – fast, call J&P Electrical and we’ll get it done!

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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: www.cpsmi.com

Gifting Support to End Cancer

Here at J&P, we are all too familiar with the heartache that comes from losing a loved one far too soon. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide. Ten million people die from cancer every year.

A donation to the American Cancer Society is more than a financial gift. It is a lifeline for the entire cancer community and one more step toward a future without cancer.

Because of generous, passionate donors, The American Cancer Society can improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through:

•           Providing essential patient support

•           Advocating for important issues like health equity and more affordable care for all

•           Funding breakthrough research that saves lives

If you, our loyal customers, are seeking a way to help an incredibly important cause, please join us in making a tax-deductible donation to the American Cancer Society and help us get one step closer to a future without cancer.

Donate to the American Cancer Society Here

The J&P Electrical team sincerely appreciates your support for this cause. We wish everyone a blessed and delightful holiday season filled with love and joy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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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: www.cpsmi.com

We’re So Thankful for You!

There are countless reasons for us to feel gratitude, and you, our esteemed customer, are certainly one of them! We at J&P Electrical immensely appreciate the incredible loyalty and support we receive from our valued clientele.

Here are just a few who have reached out to let us know how we have helped:

“I must have called 10 places to find a part. J&P not only had the best price by far, but they shipped it the same day. I save time now and call them FIRST.”  – Purchasing Manager, NC

“Went down and met Doug at JP Electrical and was more than impressed with their operation.   Wish I knew about this place years ago. I am confident that the gear he showed me will be more than adequate.”  – Wayne, United Electrical

“You folks are a first-class family! We totally appreciate everything you’ve done for us.”  – Michael, NAS

“Customer called me this morning praising the duct and plugs that you sent. They could not get over the quality of the recon as well as the packaging. They are thrilled. I know you just did what you always do, your best! Thank you!!”  – Scott K.

“Just wanted to pass along a compliment that was sent to me about a recent order that we had shipped direct from J&P Electrical Company. A new client of ours called in to tell me how impressed he was when he received the bus plugs that were ordered. He was a bit apprehensive working with a new vendor and bit unsure of what to expect with a direct shipment but was VERY happy when he received his bus plug order, and they looked like new. Thanks again, J&P!” – Brian, Lancaster

“Been a customer since 2014. Great quality on refurb products and a very knowledgeable staff.  J&P does an outstanding job, I would highly recommend them!” – Jeremy K.

Again, thank you for your kind words and helping our business grow. It’s through word of mouth and public expressions of satisfaction that amplifies our presence and helps share the standard of excellence we strive to deliver. Our wish is that we have added, at least in some small measure, to the flourishing of your business ventures.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our J&P Electrical team for your unwavering commitment. Your efforts enable us to serve many. We wish you all a joyful holiday with family and friends!

Live in Peace, With Joy and Thankfulness

Happy Thanksgiving!

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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: www.cpsmi.com

U.S. Electrical Transmission Lines: The Roadblocks to Progress

The U.S. electrical grid is aging and not evolving quickly enough to accommodate the shift towards cleaner energy sources. Despite the pressing need to revamp and expand the grid, constructing new transmission lines remains a daunting task, likened to “herding cats.”

Over 1,000 gigawatts of potential clean energy projects are stuck in limbo, primarily due to transmission issues. The expansion rate of transmission lines from 2013-2020 was a mere 1% annually. To tap the full potential of the Inflation Reduction Act, this rate needs to jump to 2.3% per year.

Obstacles to Electrical Grid Advancement

The myriad of stakeholders complicates matters. With over 3,150 utility companies in the U.S., consensus on transmission lines’ locations and financing is elusive. Disparate interests, from environmentalists to power generation companies, often clash. Challenges intensify when transmission lines cross multiple states. Each state’s stance? “You pay for it.”

A core issue is cost recovery. Energy organizations must ensure a return on their investments in new lines, with costs typically passed to the benefiting electricity customers. The lack of a standardized system to allocate costs across utility territories is a significant hurdle.

Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator), a key regional planning agency, is spearheading a $10.3 billion plan for 18 new transmission projects. Their aim? To cut down project durations and enhance efficiency. Meanwhile, Great River Energy and Minnesota Power are pioneering a 150-mile transmission line project, prioritizing community involvement to navigate the delicate issue of land rights.

Challenges in Building New Electrical Transmission Lines

The expansion of the U.S. electrical grid faces numerous obstacles, making the construction of new transmission lines a challenging endeavor. Some of these challenges include:

  • Regulatory Hurdles: Multiple federal, state, and local agencies oversee grid expansion, sometimes resulting in prolonged approval processes.
  • Land Rights and Public Opposition: Acquiring land or rights-of-way often brings about conflicts with property owners, environmentalists, and local communities who may oppose new lines due to concerns about property values, environmental impact, or aesthetic reasons.
  • Environmental Concerns: The impact on wildlife, forests, and water sources often needs extensive study, further lengthening the approval process.
  • Cost Implications: High costs associated with building new infrastructure can deter investment, especially in regions where the return on investment is uncertain.
  • Technological Changes: As energy storage and distributed energy resources grow, there’s a debate on how much new transmission is truly needed.

Amidst these challenges, the U.S. needs to strike a balance between grid expansion and stakeholder concerns to meet its energy objectives and incorporate more renewables. Engagement, teamwork, and innovation are key as the U.S. works towards a sustainable electrical future.

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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/

Refurbishing Industrial Electrical Parts: A Sustainable Solution

As we tread further into 2023, the emphasis on sustainability and resource conservation is more pressing than ever. This shift in focus has significantly influenced the industrial sector, with the refurbishing of electrical parts emerging as a critical trend. This article summarizes why refurbishing industrial electrical components is both eco-friendly and economically viable.The Refurbishment MovementThe global push towards sustainability has prompted industries to look inward, finding ways to minimize waste and maximize the life of their equipment. Refurbishing, as opposed to replacing, extends the life of electrical components, reducing the need for new raw materials and decreasing the environmental footprint of manufacturing processes. Restoring parts is also highly cost-effective, yielding significant savings for industries.  Why Refurbish Heavy Electrical Components?Cost-Efficiency: As we just mentioned, refurbishing versus replacing electrical components can save businesses a lot of money. Rather than buying new parts or replacing an entire electrical system, reconditioned electrical hardware is cleaned, repaired, rebuilt, and reconfigured to like new. Older equipment that still has a lot of life in it, with perhaps discontinued components, depends on available working parts that synchronize with the overall system. The refurbishing process enables old things that still work to keep running while saving costs for the end user. Eco-Friendly: Refurbishing electrical components, like many other items, aids in conserving resources and reduces the amount of electronic waste in landfills. This practice not only preserves the planet’s raw materials but also reduces the need for new manufacturing, thus minimizing the carbon footprint. Considering the potentially harmful substances present in many electrical components, refurbishment can also mitigate the environmental risks associated with improper disposal.Performance and Reliability: If done correctly, refurbished electrical components can perform equally as well as a brand-new item. Experienced technicians who turn drab, broken electrical equipment into mint condition are often mistaken as entirely new. Parts are completely disassembled, individually cleaned and inspected, repaired, painted, and reassembled. Rigorous testing and quality control measures ensure that these parts meet or exceed original specifications before they’re resold. The Process of Refurbishing Industrial Electrical ComponentsRefurbishing industrial electrical parts is more than just a cosmetic touch-up. It’s a detailed process involving:·         Inspection: Each component undergoes a thorough examination to identify any signs of wear, malfunction, or damage.·         Disassembly and Cleaning: Parts are disassembled, cleaned, and contaminants are removed. This step is crucial for parts that have been exposed to industrial environments, which can be corrosive or saturated with particulates.·         Replacement of Worn Materials: Any subpart showing signs of wear or damage is replaced with a new or reconditioned part.·         Testing: Once reassembled, the parts/equipment are subjected to rigorous testing to ensure they function as expected.·         Certification: After passing rigorous testing, the components are certified for use, guaranteeing their performance and reliability.The Future of Refurbishing in the Industrial SectorRefurbishing heavy industrial electrical parts is a win-win solution. Advancements in technology are continuously streamlining the refurbishment process, making it even more efficient. As time unfolds, more businesses are choosing to refurbish because it’s both good for the environment and saves money. Are you looking for a specific industrial electrical part? J&P Electrical likely has what you need; if not, we’ll find it for you! _______ 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/

What is Conductive Paint?

Electrically conductive paint is created by mixing a conductive pigment into a non-conductive resin binder. Adhesion comes from the binder that holds the paint together, and conduction is formed from the filler pigment. Electrical charges move through the conductive fillers and work best when they are highly concentrated, shaped like flakes or tubes. Spheres are not ideal but can provide increased conductivity with flakes. 

Fillers used in electrical conductivity vary by corrosion resistance, morphology, and price. Some conductive paints are pigmented with the following:

Branched carbon powder: The most cost-effective filler, carbon is tiny enough for grounding and RFI shielding. 

Silver-coated-copper flake: Silver offers the highest conductivity and greatest shielding capabilities, particularly in high-frequency EMI applications. 

Nickel (coated copper) flake: Offers a broad range of EMI/RFI shielding. 

Silver (silver-coated copper) flake: Especially effective in higher frequencies but does not resist corrosion as well as the other pigments. 

The choice of filler can significantly impact the shielding effectiveness and coating conductivity. While binding systems can vary immensely, they determine adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance of the coating, along with application method, working time, and the number of components. 

Conductive paints are typically formulated with solvent-based acrylic, water-based epoxy, and urethane binding systems. 

Conductive Paint Applications: 

  • EMI/RFI Shielding
  • Prototyping and repairing circuits 
  • ESD protection
  • Grounding surfaces 
  • Galvanic corrosion resistance 
  • Electroplating plastics 

Types of conductive paint include acrylic, epoxy, water-based shielding, package and board-level shielding, ESD safe, spray paints, pens, and paint thinners. 

J&P Electrical uses only top-quality paints and sealers during our refurbishing process.

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/ 

U.S. Factory Production Soars

Throughout the United States, construction spending by manufacturers more than doubled through 2022, according to the Census Bureau. Billions of dollars in subsidies handed out by the government have spiked the EV (electric vehicle), semiconductor, and solar panel industries. 

Not only did production numbers increase, but factories themselves swelled. Compared to $90 billion in June 2022, the annual rate soared to almost $190 billion by April 2023. Roughly 13 percent of non-governmental construction consisted of manufacturing. 

According to the World Bank, China accounts for approximately 30 percent of global manufacturing value, almost double the United States. Approximately 800,000 jobs have been added to the United States manufacturing industry to compete with overseas countries such as China. Amid rising costs and political tensions, a few Chinese companies have pushed their manufacturing to India, Thailand, and Vietnam in response to the 2018 trade war with China. 

Since 2021, the United States has employed about 13 million workers and added around 800,000 manufacturing jobs. The manufacturing skills gap highlights the market’s struggle to find qualified workers and could result in 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030.

In the past year, 96 percent of American companies are evaluating reshoring operations or outright shifting production to the United States. This percentage was a spike from 2021, when a mere 78 percent of businesses were looking to reshore or bring operations home. 

The Inflation Reduction Act was instated in August 2022 with the hopes of creating new jobs in manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy fields. It is estimated that up to 1.5 million jobs will be created by 2030. 

Another factor of the manufacturing boom is the CHIPS and Science Act, which provided $280 billion in funding to increase semiconductor manufacturing starting in July 2022. 

While factory manufacturing increased, office, healthcare, and educational construction plummeted. Residential construction has also waned after a housing market cooldown. 

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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/ 

Harnessing the Power of Commercial Busways: The Future of Electrical Distribution

The demand for efficient and reliable power distribution systems in commercial spaces is skyrocketing in today’s fast-paced world. From bustling shopping malls to high-tech office complexes, the lifeline of these structures is a seamless supply of electricity. Here’s where commercial busways make a grand entry as the modern-day champions of electrical distribution.

What exactly is a commercial busway? Imagine a series of electrical conductors neatly tucked inside a protective enclosure. These conductors play a pivotal role in distributing electricity throughout a building. Unlike traditional cabling, which often resembles an unruly jungle of wires, busways are streamlined, efficient, and modular.

Modularity: A Game Changer

The beauty of commercial busways lies in their modularity. Need to revamp a section of your office? No problem! Busways can be easily reconfigured or extended, saving time, and reducing costs. The plug-and-play nature of busways means that adding or relocating power outlets is a breeze. Say goodbye to extensive rewiring and welcome the era of flexible power distribution!

Compact and Space-Efficient

Real estate is precious, especially in commercial settings. Busways’ sleek design ensures that they take up minimal space, without compromising on performance. This is a boom for architects and engineers, who can now plan spaces without the bulky constraint of traditional electrical cabling. The reduced footprint also translates to better airflow and cooling, which is critical in areas housing sensitive electronic equipment.

Safety and Reliability: Non-Negotiable

Safety is paramount, and commercial busways deliver. The protective enclosure around the conductors mitigates the risks of electrical shocks and arc flashes. Moreover, busways are designed to contain electrical faults, reducing fire hazards. With busways, you can rest assured knowing that the occupants and assets are shielded from electrical mishaps.

Energy Efficiency: Good for the Wallet, Great for the Planet

Finally, let’s talk about energy efficiency. Busways are designed to minimize electrical losses. This means that more of the electrical power is utilized effectively, leading to lower energy bills. Moreover, by optimizing energy use, busways contribute to a smaller carbon footprint. Adopting busways is a step in the right direction for eco-conscious businesses.

To summarize, commercial busways are nothing short of an electrical marvel. Their modular and compact design, coupled with safety features and energy efficiency, makes them an indispensable tool in modern commercial spaces. As we continue to build and innovate, busways will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the electrical landscapes of the future.

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: Our Story

In September 2007, Jim Ozzello and Phil Delavy decided to take their combined 38 years of experience and form J&P Electrical Company. In 2012, Jason Ozzello officially became a co-owner of the company. Since Phil’s retirement, J&P has been a family-owned and operated business; owners Jason and Jim and brothers David and Jacob all work with the company. Travis Hill, our shop manager, has been a member of the company since its inception and is a longtime friend of the Ozzello family. 

Through the years, we have added many family members and friends to our team, resulting in a deep-rooted passion for the well-being of the company and our customers and vendors alike. We are a team at J&P, and we hope it shows in our customer service and products.

Thank you for allowing our family business to be a part of your business. We look forward to hearing from you!

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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/