The real challenge, and where designers can help their clients best, is to engage with stakeholders and come up with creative solutions that form the basis of the brief for a successful project.
Generally, the heat rejection plant is located as close to the data halls as possible, however, where there is a drive towards higher density data centres the typical space for external heat rejection may be limited.To achieve an increased heat rejection capacity in limited space, the approach temperature of the unit may have increase (leading to an increase in the mechanical cooling hours annually).. Based on previous Bryden Wood data centre projects, we have plotted heat rejection plant properties based on their heat rejection capacity (kW/m.
vs approach temperature(K)..Note: The footprint shown are for the unit only and exclude any access/air intake space.For plant which are part of chilled water systems, the ancillary equipment is not included in the footprint such as pumps, heat exchangers and pressurisation system..
Some strong correlations can be observed:.Cooling towers offer.
a much lower approach temperature compared to dry air coolers (similar kW/m.
This is because cooling towers utilise evaporative cooling where water and air mix, improving heat exchange compared to the limitations of a dry air cooler coil.Our recent work in the UK with Landsec on a modular office building project has demonstrated the following advantages: the automation of processes leading to a 30-50% reduction in the numbers of people onsite, an increase in safety as a result of reduced work at height, lower capital costs with a 25% reduction in materials due to component optimisation, and a 13% improvement in speed.
Already impressive, we expect these metrics will only continue to improve over time.. Design to Value.The starting point, and where we must begin in order to truly maximise the benefits that P-DfMA and MMC make possible, is to rework our core processes (design, procure, construct, operate) around a central, driving principle: process-led design.
In other words, we must begin with the manufacture and assembly process in mind.Innovation doesn’t respect discipline or sector boundaries.