Schaefer Engineering, Inc. - Arkansas IAAI Training

Our engineers will share their experience and expertise at the Arkansas IAAI Spring Conference, April 13-14, 2023, in Heber Springs, Arkansas. Here is a list of the training classes offered by Schaefer Engineering:

Investigating Residential Electrical Systems – Rob Markiewicz, PE

Solar and Battery Storage Systems - Ben Fischer, PE

Mr. Markiewicz will cover the roles of private vs. public investigators and the electrical engineer in a residential fire investigation.  The residential electrical system architecture will be discussed to provide a clear understanding of how the electrical service is brought into and distributed through the structure.  This will include an explanation of the electrical service drop/lateral from the transformer through the meter base to the panelboard.  Additionally, branch circuit and device configuration will be discussed.  The presentation will then focus on common electrical failures and ignition sources that we see with residential electrical systems.  The class will conclude with a discussion to differentiate between electrical ignition sources and cause as related to residential electrical systems.

Mr. Fischer’s course includes safety and best practices for inspection and investigation of fires involving solar arrays and will include hands-on evaluation of commonly used components.  It will also cover the basics of design and installation methods of grid tied and battery backup equipped solar systems, discussion of the different types of equipment and battery systems that may be encountered, evaluation of various battery chemistries and features, as well as discussion of emerging industry trends, code changes, and new technology in this rapidly changing field.