Secure I.T. Environments Ltd (SITE), a leading UK provider of design and build services for modular, containerised, and micro data centres, has announced the successful completion of a demanding upgrade project on Jersey — the largest of the Channel Islands.
The project involved intricate logistics, including shipping all equipment — such as three air conditioning systems — to a remote location 14 miles off the coast of Normandy, and was delivered on time and within budget.
The core of the upgrade focused on enhancing cooling capabilities within two rooms of an active data centre. In one room, two aging Edenaire IPAC 70-2 air conditioning units were replaced with more energy-efficient GEA Multi-DENCO DX Freecool units, supported by exterior hybrid heat rejection units. In the second UPS room, two existing cooling units were consolidated into a single GEA Multi-DENCO indoor unit, optimized with downflow close control air handling systems and a Denco ambient air-cooled condenser to maximize efficiency.
These modifications necessitated adjustments to the data centre’s piping infrastructure, with the installation of two circuits of DX pipework and two circuits of free cooling water pipework to accommodate the new cooling units. Following the upgrade, SITE conducted comprehensive commissioning and environmental monitoring tests before refitting the raised flooring in both rooms.
Given the island location, weather and logistics posed significant challenges. The project team meticulously coordinated with suppliers and the supply chain to ensure hardware availability on Jersey. The project timeline was carefully planned to allow for shipping delays, ensuring continuous progress and adherence to deadlines without disruption.
“Projects can be complicated in many ways, especially in restrictive environments like islands. Our team and suppliers worked tirelessly to deliver this project on time and within budget. A key factor in our success is relentless planning and maintaining close relationships with our clients to navigate logistical challenges effectively,” said Chris Wellfair, Projects Director at Secure I.T. Environments.
