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CSIE has successfully completed over 250 data center/infrastructure projects, ranging from technology infrastructure requirement analysis to the design/build of technology facilities for multi-phase, and multi-year projects.

Due to the confidential nature of most of our government projects, majority of the case studies described are for commercial projects. The projects have been arranged in our service categories.

New Bladensburg Library is Ready to Serve the Community

Overview

CSIE provided Design Engineering Services for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing along with LEED Services for a new 22,834 sq ft Library in support of the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System. Design included coordination with utility companies for electrical, water, and gas services. Calculations covered power systems, lighting, and mechanical loads. Mechanical component selections covered plumbing fixture selections for domestic cold water, hot water, sanitary, and stormwater systems, domestic water interface, natural gas piping system and mechanical systems. Sustainable systems included Solar Panels on the Roof, Electric Car Charging Stations, and Energy-Efficient HVAC and Lighting Systems.

Project Highlights:

Location: Bladensburg, MD
Size: 22,834 sq ft

Key Project Elements

  • Complete Architectural and Engineering Construction Documents, Bid Support, and Construction Administration Services.
  • Completed several studies and analysis for various Technology Intensive Spaces.
  • Provided Reliability and Resilient Recommendations.
  • Photovoltaic Systems
  • Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations

Baltimore Technology Park – Data Center

Overview

CSIE was contracted to perform Architectural, Structural and MEP services for the build-out of a 30,000 square foot state-of-the-art Data Center facility located in Baltimore, MD.

Project Highlights:

Location: Baltimore, MD
Size: 30,000 sq. ft.
Cost: Design only $120,000

Key Project Elements

  • 10,500 sq. ft. conditioned/raised floor space
  • Monitoring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
  • Redundant IP bandwidth available
  • N+1 redundant electrical design and distribution
  • Automatic switching from primary to back up power supply
  • Single and three-phase power
  • Completely isolated ground system
  • PDUs have single feed from independent UPS
  • AC power systems capable of delivering both 120V (in 20 or 30 amps) and 208V (in 20, 30 or 40 amps) service, with 480V available in suites
  • DC power available in -48V configuration with various amperages
  • Redundant 26-ton HVAC units
  • Multi-zoned, dry-pipe, dual interlocked pre-action fire protection system
  • Water detection system below flooring
  • Power cabling under 18” raised flooring
  • Structural capacity of raised floor is 600 lbs./sq. ft.

Johns Hopkins MRI Outpatient Clinic

Overview

CSI Engineering, PC (CSIE) developed complete Architectural and Engineering construction documents for the installation of two MRI suites at the Outpatient Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. This project required extensive coordination with the facilities department, technical and medical staff at the hospital, construction contractors and the vendor supplying the equipment. This project was designed and completed for the opening of the Outpatient Center on time.

CSIE also provided several studies and analysis for Johns Hopkins, both the Hospital and the University organizations relating to various Technology Intensive spaces. Studies analyzed the technology infrastructure supporting the hospital, provided reliability recommendations, upgrade recommendations, and consolidation recommendations for all major infrastructure systems including Architecture and Space Planning, Mechanical, Electrical and Technology Equipment Projections. These studies were utilized by Hopkins for facilities and business continuation planning.

In a related project, CSIE designed and implemented the replacement of the existing UPS and battery system which supported the Hospital Data Center. Construction phasing plans were developed and the implementation process was planned closely supervised to ensure no down-time for critical operations.
CSIE was involved in the suite site selection for optimal image quality. Space planning to include ACR recommended safety zones for MRI and efficient patient flow. Planning included consideration for future equipment expansion without service disruption and equipment modality coordination, as well as the development of construction and vibration guidelines to mitigate disruption to existing imaging operations.

Project Highlights:

Location: JHU Outpatient Clinic
Cost: $1.2 Million

Key Project Elements

  • Complete Architectural and Engineering construction documents
  • Several studies and analysis for various Technology Intensive spaces
  • Provided reliability recommendations, upgrade recommendations, and consolidation recommendations
  • Designed and implemented the replacement of the existing UPS and battery system which supported the Hospital Data Center

SSA Campus HVAC Upgrades

Overview

The Social Security Administration’s Metro West facility has a Building Automation System and numerous computer rooms that required 24/7/365 coverage. CSI Engineering PC’s (CSIE) services included: total building equipment operation including installation, repair and maintenance of all HVAC, electrical, plumbing equipment such as chillers, pumps, air handlers, cooling towers, and dehumidification equipment.

The major equipment servicing buildings under this contract included:
3,800 cfm Desicant Wheel Dehumidification System, 45,000 cfm Kathapac Dehumidification System, Four 500-tom Cooling Towers, Two 300-ton Cooling Towers, Two 250-ton Cooling Towers, Two 55-ton Chillers, One 300-ton Chiller, All Associated Air Handlers, Fans and Pumps, One 11,000 kW Generator, Sixteen 13.2kVa Transformers, Sixteen Switchgear Cubicles, and a Honeywell Delta 1000 Building Automation System.

Special Features
This project required an on-site staff that includes a Project Superintendent and was managed by an off-site Senior Project Manager.

Project Highlights:

Location: Various locations throughout the SSA Campus
Cost: $1.7 Million

Key Project Elements

  • Testing of all high voltage substations, motor control centers, transfer switches, transformers and panels; and the testing of all plumbing components from the hot water system to the restroom facilities.
  • Other services included chemical treatment, fire protection, electrical testing, pressure vessel testing, and kitchen duct exhaust cleaning.

Plum Island Animal Disease Center

Overview

Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) is a research center focused on bovine disease and other exotic animal disorders. Its purpose is to integrate human and animal research and perform knowledge transfer regarding the two. Scientists use the facility to conduct basic and applied research and diagnostic activities to protect the health of livestock on US farms. The US Department of Homeland Security and the US Department of Agriculture jointly operate the facility. It features Biosafety Level (BSL) 2 and 3 facilities. It is the only facility in the US permitted to handle Foot and Mouth Disease live virus. The CSI Engineering, PC (CSIE) mission for this project was to provide safety and flexibility in design for a renovation and expansion of the Center’s capabilities.

CSIE provided electrical design for upgrade of the primary power infrastructure in the facility as well as design for fit-out of an expansion of the 190,000 square foot building. Construction of the electrical upgrade was carried out while the facility remains operational. It currently features a 30,000 Enhanced Laboratory Space at BSL-3 as well as a 30,000 square foot BSL-3 Animal Holding Space The entire expansion added 16,633 square feet of usable space and included a basement, main floor and HEPA rated air filtration. Additional large animal management facilities were included in the expansion.

Since science drives the design, the CSIE team provided leadership for the project, including throughput modeling and design, managing an integrated modeling process, communications expertise, security design, design/build services, new technology integration, cost modeling, value engineering and facility commissioning services.

Project Highlights:

Location: Various locations throughout the Plum Island Complex
Size: $1.7 MILLION

Key Project Elements

  • Energy Recovery
  • Variable Airflow Management
  • Energy Storage
  • Water Side Energy Recovery
  • Biosafety and Operational Protocol Development

JP Morgan Chase & Co – Data Centers

Overview

Performed equipment and system surveys, performed electrical studies, generated reports and labels associated with Arc Flash analysis at multiple JPMorgan Chase facilities, including Core Data Centers I and II, at over 1200 pieces of equipment each.

Project Highlights:

Location: Various locations throughout the Banking System
Size: Varied by location

Key Project Elements

Field Surveys
Performed extensive field surveys of existing electrical and mechanical equipment. Recorded equipment ratings, over current protective device ratings and settings, cable information.

Short Circuit Study
Performed data entry and short-circuit calculations for the building power distribution system to determine maximum short-circuit currents which may occur at the electrical equipment during fault conditions. This equipment included substations, switchboards, panel boards, generators, UPS equipment, transformers, enclosed circuit breakers and safety disconnect switches. The voltage ratings ranged from 34.5 kV to low voltage. Studies included determination of worst-case scenario based on up to fourteen (14) switching configurations.

Protective Device Coordination Study
Prepared time-current coordination plots, calculations, and protective device schedules with recommended trip settings for setting in the field by others. The Coordination Study was provided from medium voltage service entrance equipment down to low voltage main breakers in every panel board or largest branch circuit breakers for main lug panels.

Arc Flash Analysis Study
The Arc Flash Analysis was prepared to determine potential exposure to Arc Flash Energy, which is required for the purpose of injury prevention and determination of appropriate levels of PPE. The incident energy and flash protection boundaries will be determined based on the available Standards for Arc Flash analysis (IEEE Standard 1584-2002 and NFPA 70E-2009). Studies included determination of worst-case scenario based on up to fourteen (14) switching configurations.

Arc Flash Labeling
Printed vinyl arc flash warning labels and assisted owner’s facility staff with application. Typical label data included hazard category, required clothing, glove class, approach boundaries, and incident energy.

WMATA Chiller Plant Replacement

Overview

CSIE provided engineering design services for upgrades to 2 WMATA chiller plants in Washington, D.C. The chiller plants are part of the support system to WMATA’s METRO mass transit subway system.

CSIE provided mechanical and electrical design for the upgrade of two chiller plants including the chiller, cooling towers, emergency refrigerant exhaust system, ventilation system and chemical water treatment for the chilled water and condenser system related to the plant. Services included stamped drawings, specifications and a condition assessment report.

Project Highlights:

Location: Washington, DC

Key Project Elements

In addition to design documents, CSIE engineers performed complete survey and documentation of existing As-Built conditions at the two chiller plants.

Joint Base Andrews

Overview

CSIE was selected by the Department of the Navy to perform all necessary design, engineering, implementation, and construction management of the planned upgrade to the medium voltage electrical distribution system at Andrews Air Force base. The Project scope included the design and construction of medium voltage cable replacement in the flight line areas, replacement of medium voltage overhead distribution with medium voltage underground distribution throughout the command, support buildings, hanger, and residential areas. Electrical design and engineering included short circuit calculations, relay coordination, specification of the medium voltage vacuum circuit breakers and switchgear, electrical cable installation methods and procedures, extensive underground duct bank and manhole system. The project also included the design and construction of a new 2,400 sq. ft. electrical switching facility and the demolition of the existing weatherproof switch enclosure. All work took place while maintaining normal base operations.

CSIE managed the Construction Phase of the project from its on-site trailer with a full-time Project Superintendent, Project Construction Manager, and Project QA/QC Manager. CSIE developed and submitted for approval the required Environmental Protection Plan, Safety Plan and QA/QC Plan prior to the implementation of any construction. The construction management of the project adhered to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requirements such as FAR 52.236.5 and 52-236-21 pertaining to Submittals and the Army Corps of Engineers Safety Manual EM385 and OSHA Standards 29 CFR Part 1926.

Project Highlights:

Location: Prince George’s County, MD
Size: 2,400 sq. ft.
Cost: $14 Million

Key Project Elements

  • Design included Architectural Design, Electrical, Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Fire Protection and Communications Engineering.

Smithsonian – Data Center Relocation

Overview

CSI Engineering, P.C. (CSIE) was the Smithsonian’s prime contractor for the build out of their replacement data center. CSIE was initially selected to develop a Data Center Needs Assessment Report (NAR) consisting of a study, investigation, and evaluation of potential data center sites in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The NAR defined a specific list of physical and environmental attributes and requirements for the new Smithsonian Data Center. Specific core facility requirements includes electrical, HVAC, and stand-by generators in addition to identifying all other mission critical Data Center related requirements including, but not limited to, raised floor space needs, racks, KVM, ladders, physical security and access, monitoring, fire suppression and detection issues.

The Smithsonian Institution then retained CSIE to develop a Data Center Basis of Design (BOD), enabling the Smithsonian Institution to develop site selection criteria. The BOD also defined facility design parameters. Through the next phase of this project, CSIE utilized the criteria from the NAR to perform Site Evaluation Services. The Site Evaluation Services continued into a detailed Facility Assessment, documenting detailed information on the existing building and infrastructure. With the Site Evaluation complete, the Smithsonian selected CSIE for the Data Center design and build of the selected new Data Center site. CSIE also collaborated with the Smithsonian to develop decommissioning plans and strategies for the relocation of the existing infrastructure.

Project Highlights:

Location: DC Metro area
Size: $3.5 Million

Key Project Elements

  • The Design services included site investigation, space planning, architectural & interior design, electrical, mechanical, fire protection, security, NOC and telecommunications design and engineering, schematic and concept design, parametric and construction cost estimating, preparation of design build bridging documents and construction phase services in addition to a risk analysis and Design Engineering services of the following systems: Architectural and Interior Design, Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Fire Protection Systems, Network Operations Center (NOC), Security, Telecommunications and Cable Plant design and Signage.
  • Construction services included a fast-track schedule, phased approach, subcontracting, demolition, and an all trades build-out customized to the Smithsonian Institution’s move and occupancy milestones and requirements. CSIE was also instrumental in obtaining all local and state permits and inspections.

WMATA Transit Asset Inventory (TIA)

Overview

CSIE’s Electrical and Mechanical engineers and team leaders worked with GFP to advance WMATA’s Transit Asset Inventory and Condition Assessment Project (“TAICA”).  Phase I of the project consisted of producing an   initial   capital   asset   inventory and condition assessment to support the update WMATA’s Capital Needs Inventory (CNI) by the end of calendar year 2016.

Capital needs for the assets include in the assessment were determines over the ten-year period from 2016 to 2026 by determining each asset’s typical service life and year installed. GFP Team’s Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in conjunction with WMATA’s SMEs established an expected typical service life for each asset type in years. A calculated “Next Renewal Year” was determined by adding the typical service life to the year installed subtracted by the current year. However, the calculated Next Renewal Year could be overridden by the assessor if they felt that the value calculated is not representative of the actual condition of the assets. The Remaining Service Life (RSL) was computed either from the Calculated Next Renewal Year resulted in 2016 or earlier, a “Deficiency” for that asset  was created,   which   could   also   be   thought   of   as   the   asset’s   backlog   of   capital needs. CSIE’s engineers completed surveys and assessments of over fifty stations, maintenance facilities, rail complexes and yards, and bus facilities.

Project Highlights:

Location: Various stations throughout the Metro System
Size: Varied by location

Key Project Elements

  • CSIE provided engineering services under the direction of the Gannett Fleming Parsons (GFP) Joint Venture as part of their GAEC Facilities contract
  • According to directions received from WMATA, the condition assessments were performed using a rating scale consistent with the FTA’s Transit Economic Requirements Model (TERM) format. TERM rates an asset’s condition on a scale of 5 (excellent), 4 (good), 3 (adequate), 2 (marginal) through 1 (poor)
  • To arrive at an SGR score for each facility, a weighted average was used based on each building system’s relative, typical replacement cost. This methodology has been documented in the overall condition assessment report.
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