A Long-Lasting Solution
“The durability and cost benefit for the end client is of the upmost importance. It also demonstrates that hot-dip galvanizing is not only a product that has to be used near coastline environments but can also benefit projects in low corrosive zones.”
The new 20-megawatt data centre in Hume, Australia is designed to meet the increasing demand for cloud services from the Australian government. The custom design demands structural, environmental, aesthetic and operational requirements to meet the highest standards for data centres. The CDC innovative design and state of the art facility allows it to operate in “island mode” during peak times by using onsite power generators and recycled water to operate “off the grid” when required. This provides security and flexible services with environmentally friendly operations.
Hot-dip galvanizing was used predominantly in the structural steel members. Approximately 450 tons of steel were required to be hot-dip galvanized. Baxter Engineering worked with our team to ensure the best possible results. Our team was able to progressively dip the large beams and work to the limits of their operational scope.
Our team utilized its own truck fleet to deliver direct to site in Hume. Due to the lengths, travel restrictions were in place. Communication with the Baxter team on-site was imperative to ensure dates and times for unloading could be met. Although Hume is in a low corrosive environment, the choice of hot-dip galvanizing was used due to its durability and longevity. Hot-dip galvanizing will provide the longest life span compared to almost all other coating options and achieve the requirements of the design brief.
The project is intended to also draw the attention of Microsoft, Amazon and others to utilize its services. It creates job opportunities for local people while suppling and installing opportunities for local companies. It is estimated that over $500 million will be spent on projects like these over the coming years which will benefit local businesses by utilizing Australian products and Australian companies.
The design of this project ensures it is environmentally responsible. Being able to draw upon its own power generation and water supply it ensures residents will not be affected during optimum electricity and water usage peaks. It also creates will create hundreds of local job opportunities during and after construction. This project ensures the security of our data is maintained and managed at a government level.