Owner: Jones Day
Architect: URS
Services: Construction Manger

Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. provided the services for the HVAC and power distribution upgrade in the active data center located in the Cleveland Ohio branch. The Cleveland data center is the hub for Jones Day’s worldwide branches and is used twenty four hours a day. The project scope included the removal and installation of new cooling units, removal and installation of new power distribution including the replacement of all PDU’s, transfer switches, EPO switching, Liebert control system, and generator controls. The complete project was performed under active conditions.

Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. was included during the design development phase as a Construction Manager who’s primary role was to establish schedules and budgets for the project. During this phase it became obvious the emergency cooling was required for the summer duration while the final design was being completed and implemented. The solution for the temporary cooling was designed and implemented in a fashion that would expedite the heat relief of the room while also allowing the major portion of the ducts installed to be used in the final solution and reducing the overall cost burden on the client.

After the design development phase Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. was retained as the Construction Manager with the primary subcontractors, Doan Pyramid Electric and Vadakin Refrigeration, to implement the work in a timely and non-disruptive manner. Careful planning based on the approved design set the groundwork for a successful project that met the design criteria ahead of schedule.

Great care was taken in the physical aspect of the construction with dust control both above the raised floor and below while the new units and branch work took place. By working in phases both the mechanical and electrical work was able to be completed without disruption to the client’s active service. After eight months of installation a deep breath was taken as the main power was disconnected and the transfer switches seamlessly and successfully connected to the generator power.

What made the project a success was the working relationship established between the client, URS, Doan/Pyramid Electric, and Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. By providing the construction expertise in a professional manner Dunlop & Johnston, Inc. helped the project overcome the obstacles created by both the clients needs as well as the physical constraints of the working space.