Project: Coordinated Design/Build Chilled Water Distribution System Alterations
Project Value: $2,200,000

Background: The site is a campus style setting with many buildings including vivariums and laboratories as well as offices. There is a new central utility complex but not all buildings are connected to the central plant and some with individual chillers lack the capacity to cool the respective buildings.

Intent: The client wanted to add steam and chilled water branches from the existing underground distribution system to the Building 8 Annex buildings. Also to add secondary chilled water pumping systems within one building to feed all buildings to save energy and improve cooling and heating capacity.

Project Scope: To perform major underground piping installation in high pedestrian traffic area with little disruption as possible.

The project included the following:

• A consulting engineering company had completed the design but from a different tie in and pipe routing area. The drawings were modified and permits were obtained.
•  A new system of pre-insulated underground pipe branches was installed including extensive excavation, manholes and pipe welding.
•  A chiller was replaced with two 125 HP chilled water pumps with variable frequency drives and controls to increase distribution pressure.
•  Extensive electrical power distribution was provided to power the pumps

Results:

• The project was completed on time and within budget
• The disruption impact to client personnel was minimized
• The system will save energy and improve cooling capacity.
• A complimentary letter of reference was provided to BUIST. Permission to speak directly with the client may be arranged upon request.