Reflecting on the past year is a tradition that most editors follow when penning their December editorials. This year I’ve decided to change the format.
With this issue,pmecompletes 15 years of being published. Since 1995, this magazine has provided detailed information on industry topics that were of most concern during the holiday season each year…
1995: Plumbing engineers share their concerns that the ANSI 40 Uniform Plumbing Code (put forth by the consortium of IAPMO/NAPHCC/MCAA) restricts innovative design.
1996: Days before U.S. manufacturers of commercial water closets are required to begin producing 1.6-gpf units,pme publishes an in-depth look at their market impact.
1997: Global economics and its impact on engineering firms (all sizes) is on the minds of readers. “Are You Ready for the Future?” prepares them for the 21st Century.
1998: The Internet age is firmly underway, andpme explains the importance of online interactivity for engineering firms to establish a strong Web presence.
1999: Proper drainage for backflow devices is a growing concern as more water purveyors require devices be installed at domestic water service entrances to buildings.
2000: Fire protection engineers learn about a “code footprint” implemented by one state fire marshal’s office to streamline the plans review process and ensure code compliance.
2001: Aware of the growing debate on tank vs. tankless water heaters,pme gives readers a detailed overview of the latter - including features, specifications and schematics.
2002: Practical and solution-driven, our readers get the information they need regarding protection of non-condensing boilers used in hydronic systems.
2003: The mechanical specification sections in MasterFormat face an extensive revision – so pme compares the current vs. proposed versions of each division (50 in all).
2004: Citing new research, an engineering consultant challenges the industry to set aside some conventional wisdom about brazing copper tubing to prevent joint failure.
2005: Our readers know fire sprinklers save lives, but we remind them that it’s equally important to know the basics about the codes that govern sprinklers.
2006: In light of new size and storage requirements for water heaters, pme presents a different selection method for thermostatic mixing valves for emergency fixtures.
2007: Increasingly, plumbing engineers tell us about the need to select components (like valves) for unusual designs. So we provide problem-solving tips and equations.
2008: Cavitation in valves and pumps takes center stage, and pme provides practical ways for plumbing engineers to prevent, recognize and counter this problem.
2009:This year, water conservation is the dominant topic. As a result, an article on removing barriers to water reuse will run next month…
Industry trends are always changing. The bigger question is: Whattypeof change will we make in our industry next year?
This holiday season, let our gift be the resolve to make a positive change...in 2010 and beyond.
