Equinix Data Centre

Equinix, the world’s largest IBX Data Centre and colocation provider, has built its first Melbourne Data Centre complex. Walker Fire Protection was appointed by builders FDC to design, install, commission, test and maintain a new integrated fire protection system in Stage 1.

Effective fire protection in Data Centres is a priority, with mission critical facilities housing high density information and communications technology and generating large amounts of heat. Careful design is critical to fire system performance; BIM is set to become the key to efficient design and smooth delivery of installation projects.

The new Equinix Data Centre, MEL 1, located in Port Melbourne, is helping to meet strong regional demand for premium Data Centre services driven by growth in data consumption and cloud services in the Australian and global IT markets. Stage 1 was completed in November 2014 and will house approximately 375 cabinets.

Within the facility thousands of computer racks will operate at high capacity. Large amounts of heat are generated by high speed data processing and whilst high redundancy air conditioning is used in these critical facilities, effective fire detection and suppression systems are very important for the high confidence operations required by the Data Centre’s clients.

Utilising its in-house capabilities and resources Walker Fire Protection was responsible for the installation, commissioning, testing and maintenance of a new integrated fire protection system in Stage 1. The fire system design incorporates VESDA® (Very Early Smoke Detection Apparatus) systems for earliest possible detection, a multi-zoned, dry-pipe, double-interlock, pre-action fire suppression system, and occupant warning systems.

3D BIM Revit® was used to optimise the design for the new integrated fire protection system. It allows architects and engineers to design a building and structure its components in 3D, accessing necessary building information from databases. The virtual model helps identify installation issues, including potential system component clashes prior to construction. It has also assisted with planning for future Stages 2, 3 and 4.

Following installation of the new fire detection and suppression system, a comprehensive, high tier testing plan ensured that it is operating effectively and efficiently. FDC is pleased with the team’s commitment to deliver a safe, operational, integrated fire system for Equinix.