Reuters
Reuters
Due to the sensational rise in power consumption, Reuters commissioned Powermode to execute an enormous multi million-pound power upgrade at the Docklands Technical Centre. The driver behind the decision was the exponential rise in power requirements brought about by the growth in computing power and speed of data delivery required by the market place. In addition, the non linear load profile imposed on the power infrastructure by is placing an extra-ordinary heavy burden on existing systems far and wide.
The works were carefully engineered and programmed so as to achieve a seamless transition from the existing to the newly reinforced power networks. The ‘LIVE’ working environment demanded meticulous planning in order to mitigate the risk to the continuity of the business.
Powermode installed secondary support steelwork on levels 9 & 10, on which to secure some 30 tonnes of high power busbars 4 metres above the slab level whilst carefully avoiding clashes with existing plant. We designed and coordinated complex routes between the switchgear and transformers to ensure phase rotation compatibility. At Level 10 we constructed a temporary load bearing platform and provided logistics and cranage to manoeuvre four 2½ MVA Mydal filled transformers weighing in excess 32 tonnes into position. These units are capable of delivering 10,000 kilowatts of additional power and were connected by a labyrinth of high power busbars.
Powermode provided the planning, prefabrication and construction of two double tiered UPS and battery rooms located on levels 9 and 9m. Within these rooms we carefully coordinated and installed 64 tonnes of batteries, 48 tonnes of switchgear, a similar tonnage of UPS modules, 8 tonnes of air conditioning units plus of course many tonnes of high power interconnecting busbars and cable runs. Also provided was a temporary walkway complete with an invalid ramp to enable staff safe access between the building and recreational areas whilst we carried out works close to the waterside at ground level. We demolished an existing reinforced concrete trader’s ramp together and adjacent wall to make room for the proposed generator hall, whilst providing a high density replacement wall using materials to eliminate noise breakout.
Upon completion we carefully lifted and manoeuvred into position, two 2500 KVA standby generator sets weighing in access of 28 tonnes each and capable of full synchronisation and delivering some 8000 amps at full load. The sets and hall were fitted with attenuation, exhaust outlets, day fuel tanks, fuel lines, batteries, switchgear, Hi-fog fire suppressant and ancillary controls. The cooling was arranged so that the flow of cool air would enter the generator hall via the riverside and pass through the filters and attenuators, over the set and exit though the louvers on the eastside. The generator hall was then clad with materials to match the existing façade and a disability lift fitted.
On Level 9 we undertook the complex task of servicing and upgrading the existing 7½ MVA of standby generator sets involving enhanced synchronisation. On the same floor we constructed further MV switchrooms and fitted them with 18 sections of MV switching, weighing some 10 tonnes. The equipment is automatically protected by an argonite fire suppressant gas. These MV switchrooms amongst others were interconnected by a newly installed 11,000 volt ring formed via strategic and diverse routes and involving a 2000 metre web of medium voltage cabling.
Phase 1 of the project was delivered in a professional yet relaxed manner but importantly right on time and with the very minimal disruption to the client’s business and the quality of the logistics and installation are exemplary and deserving of note.