Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Power Installation Project

This document is a case study detailing the power installation project for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLS&R) at the Astrodome. The objective was to provide power for the carnival midway area by installing four 1500 KVA 3-phase transformers. Initially, the project specified the use of GRC conduit, which is known for its mechanical strength but is heavier and more expensive, leading to longer installation times. A transition in project leadership introduced a new engineer who opted for Champion Fiberglass conduit, aiming to save time and costs. The collaboration involved the contractor, Pieper-Houston Electric’s BIM team, and Champion Fiberglass to effectively plan the project. The installation utilized approximately three thousand feet of 5-inch fiberglass conduit, which allowed for a flexible installation that reduced pulling tension and facilitated smoother labor progress. This project marked the first use of fiberglass conduit for Jacobs Engineering and Pieper-Houston Electric, resulting in significant savings in both time and materials compared to GRC.