Phoenix NAP Mechanical Reliability

Modular and Redundant

Redundancy is prevalent throughout each part of Phoenix NAP’s mechanical distribution, and it all starts with the McQuay Modular Central Plants. Each one combines chillers, cooling towers, pumps, piping, and controls in a single pre-engineered, pre-assembled package. This design, coupled with the N+1 plant configuration Phoenix NAP employs, provides the flexibility to scale and grow as demand warrants.

Additionally, the central plants feature several redundant critical components such as headers, water towers, pumps and electrical distribution systems. They even have redundant air conditioners within them to keep their own interiors properly cooled. Where ever redundancy can be present, it is.

Leveraging precise digital controls, the central plants are able to properly maintain and monitor performance. They have been tested, inspected and certified by ETL. They also use HFC-134a refrigerant, which has no ozone depletion potential and no phase-out schedule under the Montreal Protocol.

Operational Advantages

Modular central plants are only part of the story. Phoenix NAP keeps all client and carrier provider equipment cooled through the use of Stulz-ATS Cyber AiR CRAH (computer room air handler) units, arranged in an N+4 configuration per zone.

Within the CRAHs are a couple of key technologies that differentiate them from some more common computer room cooling units. Each features an electronically commutated (EC) fan with a V-frame coil design. This configuration is proven to have the lowest per-unit energy consumption in the industry, and uses the least amount of floor space. Air flow is optimized, pressure drop is minimized and water carry-over into the air stream is eliminated.