Case Study: Confidential Data Center
Data Center with Expert Panel Construction
This Confidential Data Center, with a critical IT load of 100 MW was an ambitious undertaking that involved the development of a state-of-the-art facility requiring a high standard of construction precision and efficiency. Martin Concrete was engaged to handle the entirety of the tilt-up construction for this project, demonstrating our expertise and capability in managing large-scale and complex concrete panel installations for the mission critical market. The project’s scope included the forming, placing, finishing, and erecting of 124 concrete wall panels, with a total surface area of 106,804 square feet (SF).Panel Construction
Forming: Martin Concrete’s role began with the meticulous forming of the complex panels. This phase required careful planning and execution to ensure that each panel would meet the design specifications and quality standards necessary for the building’s structural integrity.
Panel Design: The panels varied in thickness from 10 inches to 11.25 inches. This variation was based on structural requirements and insulation needs, ensuring that each panel contributed to the overall energy efficiency and durability of the building. The panels were designed to be robust and thermally efficient, integrating 2 inches of Thermomass insulation within the concrete for enhanced thermal performance.
Panel Erection: The erection of the panels was executed by FullTilt Crane Services, a fully owned subsidiary of Martin Concrete. This phase involved careful planning, precise lifting and thoughtful positioning of the panels using a 440-ton crane, which was crucial for handling the large and heavy panels safely.
Challenges and Solutions
Handling and Erection of Large Panels: Challenge: The large size and weight of the concrete panels presented logistical and engineering challenges.
Solution: Utilizing a 440-ton crane allowed for the safe and effective lifting and positioning of the panels. Detailed planning and execution by Full Tilt Crane Services ensured that each panel was erected with precision, minimizing potential issues.
Integration of Insulation
Challenge: Incorporating 2 inches of Thermomass insulation within the concrete panels required careful attention to detail to correctly place reinforcing and to maintain the integrity of both the insulation and the concrete.
Solution: Martin Concrete’s expertise in panel construction ensured that the insulation was effectively integrated. The use of insulation for the panel construction required the use of panel connectors which were installed through pre-determined holes in the insulation. This provided a rigid grid of connectors throughout the body of the panel, contributing to the panel’s overall construction and energy efficiency.
Efficiency: The successful execution of Project Blackwell demonstrated Martin Concrete’s capability to handle mission critical projects with complex designs.
Timeliness: The project was completed on schedule, thanks to the effective coordination and execution of all involved parties.
Conclusion
The Confidential Data Center stands as a testament to the capabilities of Martin Concrete and Full Tilt Crane Services in managing large-scale tilt-up construction projects. Our expertise in panel forming, concrete placement, and erection, combined with effective logistical planning and coordination, ensured the successful completion of a complex and demanding project. The integration of Thermomass insulation within the concrete panels highlights the commitment to energy efficiency and building performance, aligning with the goals of the company.