Blog
What's Trendingat Ahern?
Ahern’s experts possess a wide range of knowledge that extends beyond system design, build, and maintenance. Our blog features a number of technical articles written by Ahern employees that range in topics from industry trends, maintenance tools and tips, to service information, and more.
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Seven Steps to Healthy Plumbing Control Valves
Many control valves on plumbing systems go unnoticed until there is a need to stop water flow in all, or a section, of a plumbing system. Don’t wait for an emergency to ensure that your valves are in proper working order! These seven simple steps can save you time and money (and avoid...
Lasers, Robotics, and… Pipe Hangers?
Construction layout and surveying is all about accuracy. Until recently, these processes were performed manually by multiple people, and took a great deal of time and effort. The emergence of robotics and laser technology, however, has made the layout process faster, less labor...
The Future of Building Humidity: Pressurized Adiabatic Humidification
Do you want to humidify your building without the use of boilers, electric heating elements or canisters that need cleaning and replacement? Then adiabatic humidification might be for you. The word Adiabatic came from the Greek word adiábat, and now means without heat. Instead of...
BIM Basics
BIM is a broad term that stands for “Building Information Modeling”. BIM is used to help depict sequences of activities during a project, clarify spaces, and identify design conflicts between structural and mechanical trades. Why would you want to use BIM on a project?
The 5-Year Internal Sprinkler Inspection Explained
NFPA 25 requires an internal inspection of fire sprinkler system piping every five years. This is to be conducted to inspect for the “presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.” Foreign materials can cause obstructions to pipe and sprinklers.
Work with Purpose
What’s it REALLY like to work at Ahern? Find out how to start a fulfilling career from the people who know—our employees! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfCnlXCEGkE
From Shop to Job Site: Prefab Time Lapse
Who knew that prefabricated mechanical racking systems were so COOL? Ahern recently unveiled a time-lapse video that was filmed over several months, chronicling the assembly and installation of 32 multi-trade racking systems for the Froedtert CFAC project in Milwaukee.
What to Expect from a Fire Department Inspection
Most businesses are subject to regular fire department inspections. Every building has its own special characteristics; therefore, every fire inspection is different. However, there are some common items that fire department officials will inspect in every facility: Means of Egress...
Shop Job Fair!
Join us for a Shop Job Fair on: Monday, November 16, 2015 from 1 to 6 p.m. 845 Morris St. in Fond du Lac, WI . Ahern is hiring welders, shop assistants, quality inspectors, and more! You can apply and interview the same day, or apply online today and an HR representative will contact...
Living United Through Service
When it comes to community involvement, there is never a shortage of Ahern employees who are willing to lend a hand. No matter the task - whether creating a brand new walking trail, deep cleaning, or raising money through office events – Ahern has a lifelong, genuine dedication to...
Avoid These 3 Mistakes by Using Fire Protection Preconstruction
Don’t see the value of fire protection preconstruction services during the design phase of your project? The impact might not be visible early on, but as the project advances you’ll see that you’ve avoided potential pitfalls by engaging a fire protection advisor at the outset. We...
Life Safety Dampers and Damper Testing
When ductwork passes though rated fire or smoke walls, a life safety damper is required in order to maintain the rating of the wall. In the event of a fire, these dampers close and limit the spread of heat and smoke beyond the wall. There are 3 main types of life safety dampers:
5 Things You Need to Know for Confined Space in Construction
OSHA has issued a new rule to improve safety for construction workers in confined spaces. The rule is similar to the existing general industry standard; however it has some differences tailored to the construction industry, including requirements for a ‘more coordinated’ approach...
Fall 2015 Career Fairs
Find yourself wondering what it would be like to work at Ahern? Wonder no more! Stop and visit with one of Ahern's representatives and find out for yourself. Throughout the year, the company attends a number of college career fairs across the Midwest. Below is a list of schools...
Private Fire Hydrant Inspections
What is a private fire hydrant? Any hydrant on private property rather than city owned property is considered a private hydrant. It is a valved connection to a water main to supply water to fire protection equipment, such as a fire hose, during a fire emergency. A fire hydrant on...
6 Must-Have Apps for Your Mobile "Safety Toolbox"
The smartphone and mobile app markets continue to provide users with more resources to keep Ahern's workforce informed while working on job sites. Here is are six of the "must-have" apps that Ahern's Safety Department recommends:
Sample Testing of Fire Sprinklers
Chapter 5 of NFPA 25 (Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems), 2011 edition contains requirements for sample testing or replacement of fire sprinklers. As all fire sprinklers are not the same, requirements for sample testing or...
5 Keys to Successful Project Planning
Every construction project requires coordination and planning to achieve success. Whether a small, simple installation or a longer more complex project, every activity must fit into an overall plan that integrates with all other required activities. Communication is the critical...
7 Features of a Quality Prefabrication Shop
Contractors agree that prefabrication of pipe and sheet metal assemblies in a shop environment ultimately benefits a construction project. But how can you ensure that you’re utilizing the best prefabrication shop available? For best results, be sure your chosen facility offers these...
History of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
Written by a Pipe Fabrication Expert at Ahern The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) was founded in 1880 in response to boiler explosions that became common with the use of steam power. Between 1880 and 1890 there were over 2,000 boiler explosions in the United States.