Successful Installation of Backup Chillers at Critical Infrastructure Site

Ryan Wilks recently completed the installation of two permanent backup chillers to support key operational rooms at a Critical Infrastructure Site. The project played a crucial role in ensuring system resilience and reliability, given the high-stakes environment where uninterrupted cooling is essential.

Project Scope & Challenges

At first glance, the brief was straightforward: replace two temporary backup chillers with permanent ones. However, our detailed site survey revealed significant challenges:

The temporary units had no BMS control or interface and had yet to be operational.
Power supplies were temporary and non-essential, requiring a permanent, generator-backed essential power supply.
The installation had to accommodate future upgrades to the site’s existing main chillers and full BMS system.
Work had to be carried out without disrupting critical operations, as any outage could impact key operational rooms where human lives could be at risk.

Engineering Solutions & Execution

Collaborating closely with our client, Ryan Wilks developed a robust strategy to integrate the new backup chillers while ensuring operational continuity. Key solutions included:

Essential Power Supply Upgrade: A new Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) board and Essential Distribution Board were installed, feeding two new MSSBs and BMS Panels.
Seamless BMS Integration: Despite the aging site infrastructure, our team successfully interfaced the new backup chillers with the existing BMS, ensuring effective monitoring and control.
Complex Cable Routing: The new submains cabling between the main plant and central building was installed through existing tunnels under the driveway. This required confined space work practices and strict adherence to client system sign-offs to maintain safety and compliance.

Successful Outcome

The installation was completed without any disruption to day-to-day operations. Commissioning was carried out in close coordination with the client, ensuring all systems were fully functional and meeting operational needs. The client was highly satisfied with the outcome, reinforcing Ryan Wilks’ reputation for delivering practical, effective solutions in critical infrastructure environments.

This project is a testament to the expertise and commitment of our team, demonstrating our ability to navigate complex challenges while ensuring long-term system reliability.