Cobalt Data Centres 2 & 3

Cobalt DC2 and DC3 are the first data centres in the UK to achieve a BREEAM 'Outstanding' rating and are developed in line with the end building uses. The buildings complement the first data centre that was completed in August 2010. The Cobalt Data Centre Campus offers over 10,000m² of data hall space, making it one of the largest carrier neutral wholesale co-location campuses in the North.

Both data centre designs were driven by the function of the spaces, thus not only was an efficient building volume established, but an architecture was developed in line with the end building use from the initial development stages. The data halls also carry an identity which can be clearly seen from outside of the buildings, creating a sense of ownership and uniqueness for the end users.

The stage D design was developed using BIM (Revit) to demonstrate the co-ordination of the design architecturally, structurally and via services to provide a 3D model that could be used to illustrate and develop the design with the client.

In addition, 6SigmaDC was used to demonstrate that the concept of air optimisation would provide a stable environment that would meet the requirement of ASHRAE Class 1 operating environment. Calculations show that the design of the data halls will achieve an annualised PUE of 1.15. A full calculation, in accordance with the terminology set out by the Green Grid, was prepared and submitted to the BRE as evidence for the BREEAM assessment.

The data centre, although constructed in-situ, has a modular design approach and is flexible to accommodate either a cooling strategy of air-optimisation or chilled water system. The focus of the developer was to provide a facility that could be flexible to meet market trends, yet still be affordable to the wholesale colocation market.

For further information regarding this project please visit the Cobalt Data Centre website. 

Please click here to see a copy of the BREEAM case study for BREEAM Awards winner - Cobalt DC2.

Please click here to see a copy of the BREEAM case study for Cobalt DC3.