One of the challenges of this project was to replace the main and redundant cooling systems in the server room while maintaining operations and minimizing impact on the College.

HH Angus’ scope of work for this project included analyzing the mechanical and electrical infrastructure of the server room, and proposing permanent corrective solutions. It also included implementation of solutions to provide redundancy for the mechanical infrastructure to guarantee full operation of the servers in the event of a critical power emergency or failure of the server room's main cooling system.

In order to analyze the existing installations, we performed site visits and surveys, and interviewed technicians responsible for the server room to gather as much information as possible about the existing installation, including any ongoing issues. We also reviewed and analyzed plans for the existing installation and performed a condition assessment - chilled water and glycol piping, insulation, ventilation ducts, electrical systems serving the equipment, and control systems - and took measurements in the mechanical and server rooms to ensure the new equipment could be properly installed while still providing space for maintenance work.

Following our analysis, we produced a report outlining the scope of work to refurbish the server room's cooling systems (main and redundant systems), ensuring the installation complied with current codes and standards. We produced mechanical and electrical drawings and specifications, including proposed solutions and equipment selection, and consulted with vendors to identify optimal solutions to meet the client’s requirements. During the tender process, we reviewed bids submitted by the contractor and provided recommendations to the College.

The intention was to complete this work over the summer when classes were not in session. Due to COVID-related delays in production of the necessary equipment, the work could not be completed on the original schedule and had to be undertaken when students were back in class. We worked very closely with stakeholders to avoid disruption to the students, with some work being completed before and after class or on weekends.