VANTAGE DATA CENTER W BHO Construction commenced with this exciting Design and Construct (D&C) project on 14 July 2021. This was to be the first of three data centers that Vantage Data Centers (VDC) is planning to develop in JBN11 campus and was also the first full fit-out hyperscale data center that the WBHO D&C team had ever tackled. Over the short contract duration, the learning curve was very steep, as described further below. The structure was a fairly simple conventionally reinforced concrete frame with coffered slabs to achieve the load bearing and spanning requirements. Clear distances between columns being critical so as to ensure the data racks would fit in-between them once complete. The roof slab was somewhat unusual as it was cast to falls in two directions. This would be one of the many factors insisted upon by the client to ensure that the center remained waterproof over its lifespan. It was critical that the concrete structure went up as quickly as possible but an extensive sleeve network and earthing grid had to be installed below ground level prior to the team gaining full access in the early stages. Careful planning and re-sequencing was carried out so as to allow the pad footings, columns and surface beds to be built simultaneously with the underground services. VDC specified a light-weight panellised façade system. This product was fully imported, had never previously been used in South Africa and had a long procurement time. In order to close the building envelop and minimise the risk of other trades being affected should the supplier be late with his delivery, the WBHO team proposed, and was subsequently agreed to by the Client, that a temporary weatherproof façade be constructed out of a lightweight steel grid, Nutec board and waterproofing bandage to all joints. This temporary weather barrier was positioned on the floor plate such that it did not have to be removed and could rather enhance the fire resistance, thermal insulation and acoustic properties of the permanent façade. There were some substantial issues in the delivery
of this plant. VDC management required the support of direct suppliers. As timing was a key factor of this project, the key subcontractors had to accelerate what was already a very tight installation program. Additional shifts and teams had to be called on which increased the peak number of personnel on site to approximately 1 200. This required additional supervision and safety measures and so the site became of hive of activity, 24/7. The six standby generators’ exhausts extended well beyond the roof level and were 25 m long. Structural steel frames were required to support these, which in turn were secured back to the building’s concrete frame.
PROJECT INFORMATION
• Company entering: WBHO Construction • Client: Tshala Bese Uyavuna (RF) Consortium • Start date: February 2021 • End date: 16 March 2023 • Main Contractor: WBHO Construction/Mhlaba Properties D&C JV • Architect: Boogertman + Partners
• Principal Agent: DRD D&C JV • Quantity Surveyor: AECOM • Consulting Engineer: Pure Consulting
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21 st Best Project Awards 2022
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