CATEGORY-5 CYCLONE-PROOF FACILITY

Australia-based data center provider iSeek, has just launched its new North Queensland Regional data center in Townsville, Australia.

The data center facility which is set on the lower floor of the new Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC), is designed to withstand extreme weather events, including cyclones.

The engineering firm Hurley Palmer Flatt Group, provided the mechanical services design, and called the facility “indestructible.” The firm added that the new data center is expected to remain intact during Category 5 cyclones with a force of up to 280 kilometers per hour (174 miles/hr).

“We considered all the scenarios to deliver this pioneering facility, including fixing mechanical components to the structure in a way that they can withstand extreme force, and addressing the knock-on effect on airflow,” said Peter Gaston, project director at Hurley Palmer Flatt Group.

“Add to that, there are only a few types of protective mesh certified for use in cyclone areas, so the whole process demanded meticulous coordination of equipment and design.”

As described by Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill at the LDCC’s opening in December last year, The center which houses iSeek’s new data center is built with 54 tonnes of reinforced steel and almost 650 cubic meters of concrete – making it capable of withstanding winds of over 300 kilometers an hour (186 miles/hr).

Adding to the existing strength, Ian Porter, iSeek COO states thus, “Everything has been considered, from double hinging gates, to condenser cages providing protection from flying cyclone debris, tropical climate humidity control, reinforced concrete walls, and internal walls to meet the Queensland Government Cyclone shelter standards. We have achieved a new benchmark in data center design for environmentally volatile environments.”

The new data center is, and will be operated by iSeek, in joint partnership with telecommunications company Optus and supplier Schneider Electric. Also, Townsville City Council and James Cook University will be anchor tenants at the new data center.