The Importance of SCCR in District Energy Systems

The importance of SCCR and UL for equipment in district energy systems

Incorporating SCCR in electrical system design ensures continuity of service, safety and reliability

In a multi-part article for Consulting-Specifying Engineer, RMF's Ulises Cubas, PE, and Chase Davis, PE, CEM, along with Robert Talley, PE from the State Construction Office, North Carolina Dept. of Administration, discuss the necessity of prioritizing Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) and UL listing in district energy system designs.

Learn how engineers play a crucial role in mitigating risks and optimizing the safety, security, and reliability of district energy plants by analyzing and designing systems with appropriate SCCR. 

The importance of SCCR and UL for equipment in district energy systems

Then, discover how the North Carolina Department of Administration faced challenges when relocating and reusing two existing chillers for a new district energy plant in a case study by RMF's Ulises Cubas, PE, and Chase Davis, PE, CEM. 

In this instance, the chiller was insufficient for the higher fault currents at the new site. Working with RMF Engineering, the team explored solutions like current-limiting fuses and isolation transformers but ultimately collaborated with the manufacturer to provide new starters with adequate SCCR to update the district energy system. This ensured safety and compliance, allowing the plant to remain operational while expanding capacity for the future.

See the related case study for more information: Case study: Successful equipment relocation and reuse with new compliant electrical