As is the requirement with both the Architecture, Data and M&E Building Services aspects of the 'Galileo Connect Centres', the aim has been to develop a structure type that is robust, cost effective, and one which also satisfies all of the design constraints associated with this type of building use, yet will remain flexible in terms of the ever changing needs of data storage and access. As such, a structural system has been developed which can be adopted throughout the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia Pacific, whilst being able to accommodate both local building techniques and foundation solutions for changing ground conditions.
The materials forming both the primary structure and secondary structural components are widely available throughout the developed world, hence enforcing the opportunity to deliver the 'Galileo Connect' wherever our Clients require this form of data storage facility.
The 'Galileo Connect' Primary Facility that has been developed to consists predominately of a two storey 'Technical Block' with the ground level typically set aside for services plant, and the first floor level forming the primary data storage facility. Contained within the confines of an open barrel vaulted roof structure are the services elements forming the primary cooling plant. Located towards one end of the building is a three storey mezzanine structure housing the entrance area, loading bay, NOC facility and other office based support functions within the upper levels.
Depending on the Clients aspirations in particular with regard to the density of data storage to be provided, and the subsequent power and cooling requirements, the 'Galileo Connect data pod has also been adapted to form an HD Support Facility which has a similar layout and appearance to the typical 'Data Building', however would be utilized to solely house the additional power and cooling equipment required to cater for the higher power and cooling loads generated by the base high density storage building.
Another function of the flexibility of the 'Galileo Connect' design, is where a Clients data storage requirements are either presently in excess of the base offering of 10,000 square feet, or are expected to be so in the foreseeable future, thus the combined centre facilities may consist of a number of linked Primary Facilities and HD Support Facilities all designed and constructed as independent structures, however with link bridges located at first floor level to provide access to both personnel and support the data and other services based interconnectivity required between the neighbouring buildings.
Once again looking towards the flexibility of the buildings for future use, open plan relatively column free spaces and robust design loadings will afford the Client the opportunity to utilize the facilities for other usages such as warehouse, disaster recovery etc, should their data storage requirements either reduce or be removed in their entirety.
In broad-brush terms, it is proposed that the building structure consists a multi-storey structural steel frame carrying reinforced concrete profiled metal deck floor slabs supported on a foundation solution that will vary depending on the location throughout either the UK, Europe or Asia Pacific where the particular centre being constructed.
Whilst the structural arrangement for both the Primary Facility and HD Support Facility buildings will be common, as noted above the design accommodates alternative materials and methods of construction to reflect variations in local practice throughout the UK, Europe and Asia Pacific. These include structural steelwork, pre-cast pre-stressed concrete elements and or in-situ concrete elements dependant on facility location, similarly the foundation solutions vary to suit local ground conditions.
Each building, be it 'Primary' or 'Support' has been designed and as an independent stand alone structure, i.e. stable within its own structural frame, and as previously noted with direct access between the 'Primary' and 'HD Support for the delivery and transfer of personnel and equipment. Adjacent 'Primary Facilities' will also be linked for access purposes.