MEPIS was commissioned by Northwestern University to perform an assessment of the existing low voltage (480V and 208V) electrical distribution infrastructure of the Cook Hall Building. This 6-story (with basement and penthouse); 207,000 GSF building serves laboratories of the Evanston Campus’ various science divisions, including materials science, biology, and physics. MEPIS reviewed existing Northwestern drawings and riser diagrams and performed a thorough survey of the building to verify the equipment. Revised as-built one-line riser diagrams of the electrical distribution system were generated.
The survey documented the entire electrical system including feeder sizes and lengths, overcurrent protection device models and settings, and nameplate data for transformers and large motors. Using this survey information, a short circuit and coordination study and arc flash analysis was performed using SKM power system analysis software. A report with one-line diagrams was generated summarizing the findings, including highlighting failed equipment buses, suggested overcurrent device settings, and arc flash hazard ratings with associated labels.
