Structural Ecosystem forModular Data Centres

July 2016

Entire contents protected by Copyright. US and International Patents Pending

Tight stacking and racking of precision modules reduces equipment footprint and cable length, eliminates exposed interconnections and enhances thermal management

Because the VectorBloc system makes it easy to design and build inexpensive, stackable, rackable modules of any transportable size and load-carrying capacity, designers of modular data centers are no longer limited by the dimensions of an ISO container

The range of possible VectorBloc module configurations is endless

High-strength HSS is used for frame construction, delivering exceptional rigidity

The VectorBloc structural connector delivers the strength required for multi-story, seismic structures andthe precision that ensures interoperable modules which connect easily and accurately at the site

High strength, precision-machined steel castings include connection points that make it easy to connect modules to each other and to foundations, as well as simplifying the addition of cladding, stairs, etc.

Precision locating pins and gusset plates ensure accurate vertical and horizontal alignment of modules

Module interconnection is done from inside the modules, so groups of modules are easily joined with no space between them.

Since access to the outside is not required, cladding can be completely factory installed and modules ship weather-tight

The structural assembly procedure is straightforward.

Modules are rigged and hoisted using the locating and shear pin which projects from the top face at each corner

Once set in place, the shackle is removed and modules are joined laterallywith a gusset plate

The gusset plate is held down with flat head screws, locking the modules together, creating a level setting surface for the next module, and exposing the locating pins

Each layer of modules is positioned within .015” by the precision-machined locating pin

High strength bolts tie the module down against seismic and wind forces

Adjacent modules are set following the same procedure

Precision modules deliver flat floorswith tight seams

Whether by reverse engineering or starting from a clean slate, VectorBloc designers create customized, easily-assembled flat pack chassis kits that suit customer equipment

3D VectorJig located at VectorBloc Fabricating, Harrow, Ontario, Canada

To ensure interoperability among multiple VectorBloc-based suppliers to a common site,chassis kits are built in precision fixtures

Flat pack chassis kits can be shipped from VectorBloc Fabricating to fitout plants located anywhere in the world

Shipping flat-pack chassis kits is economical

Pre-cut, pre-drilled decking is supplied by VectorBloc or by the customer

Equipment is easily installed on the pre-prepped skid base

To keep the work area clear, columns are installed after the equipment

Temporary shipping braces or permanent structural braces are added as required

The ceiling and overhead cabling trays are installed next. The completed structure acts like a bridge truss, resisting shipping and stacking loads

Cladding is installed last and can be completely closed up for protection against precipitation and dust

Modules hoist from the top, eliminating hoisting lugs which interfere with adjacent equipment and add to load width

Completed modules with equipment installed are shipped to the site.

Equipment loads well over 100 tons can be accommodated by VectorBloc structures

Foundations are prepared in advance

If required, stanchions or a grillage is installed on the foundation

Modules from multiple suppliers arrive on site

Parasolid design delivers CG to crane operator, VectoRig halo sets modules level

Fixed locational grid and sling-free hoisting reduces crew size and pick time

Modules from supplier #1 are set

Modules from supplier #2 are set

Modules from supplier #3 are set (circulation plenums)

Precision locating pins and gusset plates ensure accurate vertical and horizontal alignment of modules

Modules from supplier #4 are set (cooling units)

VectorBloc supports stacking to 14+ stories

The stand-alone data centre or data center annex is completed quickly and easily

The result is equipment arranged logically in the densest possible configuration, without exposed interconnections

View of connecting hallway ceiling

View of circulation plenum

VectorBloc can also be used for a variety of related structures such as pipe and cable racks, towers, etc.

High-Completion, High Density Volumetric Modular

Construction For Data Centers