At Bryden Wood, we have developed digital configurators as early-stage design tools.
In other words, you can have two floors for data halls in a 20 metre planning envelope.. A fundamental reassessment of the integration of cooling systems and structure, and optimised M&E services zones through close coupling of electrical and mechanical systems will yield geometric reductions that can reduce floor to floor height.Constructing less costs less, but this approach has the potential to yield much more.
For example, a reduction in floor to floor height to 6.5m would enable a three-storey data centre on that same site – an instant gain of 50% in site yield and significant reduction in cost per kW.. A similar approach to close integration of design and the arrangement of primary plant and ancillary systems will optimise the data centre facility plan footprint.Again, this maximises yield per m2, with the added benefit of a reduction in costly M&E distribution paths..Deferring CapEx, delivering predictability.
Data centres are expensive.Being able to compress the time from project inception to occupancy, as well as having reliable procurement and supply chain, and a predictable construction programme, is hugely valuable in being able to defer CapEx and cost of finance.. One of the core principles of DfMA is the standardisation of parts and construction/assembly processes.
It enables the ‘industrialisation’ of data centre design and construction.
This allows us to work with clients to standardise procurement, through a prearranged supply chain with stockholding, if necessary, of pre-agreed capital plant and equipment.Different equipment selections –.
We test different options to find a balance between cost, energy usage and performance.. Cooling unit positioning –.Our analysis ensures an even distribution of cool air is provided to maximise cooling efficiency, in both normal and failure scenarios..
Quantity of cooling units –.We analyse the effect of removing cooling units, to reduce cost and energy usage, and remove excessive, redundant cooling..
(Editor: Magnetic Lamps)