How can modular construction techniques reduce costs for data center builds?

Posted by Roman Smith on February 28th, 2024

Keeping pace with capacity needs while maintaining efficient operations poses myriad challenges.

The demand for data centers has expanded exponentially as more of our world shifts to online platforms. However, constructing traditional data centers from scratch is a costly endeavor requiring extensive data center construction management. This is where modular construction techniques, coupled with efficient Data Center Construction Management, are transforming the data center industry. How can businesses leverage these innovative approaches to meet their growing data center needs while keeping costs in check?

What Exactly is Modular Construction?

Modular construction entails manufacturing standardized components of a building at an offsite facility, followed by assembling them on location. This Lego block-style approach enables data center operators to add, remove, or rearrange modules as required for fluctuating capacity needs. Modules may comprise anything from physical infrastructure to IT hardware.

Faster and Cheaper - Key Cost Savings

On average, modular data centers can become operational in just 16 weeks, whereas traditional data centers take 1-2 years. This accelerated time frame dramatically reduces labor, material, and project management costs. As modular components are mass-produced, materials are utilized efficiently, resulting in less waste. The ability to scale up capacity with plug-and-play modules eliminates the need for expensive wholesale retrofits in the future.

Future-Proof Flexibility 

Modular components can be swapped out as technology evolves, protecting operators from vendor lock-in and lengthening the usable lifespan of the data center. Operators can seamlessly add next-gen servers, improved cooling systems, higher power densities, or newer rack configurations. As long as the core structure remains intact, the data center interior can remain adaptable and future-ready.

Potential Hurdles to Consider

Modular construction poses challenges around deep customization, as modules are made to standardized specifications for mass production efficiency. Operators cede some design flexibility. Meticulous planning is required to integrate modular components into a holistic optimized data center. There are also key considerations around structural engineering, transportation logistics, and code compliant factory construction. Leveraging experienced vendors is crucial.

Strategies for Maximizing Savings

When embarking on a modular data center project, there are key strategies operators can employ to maximize cost savings and long-term value:

• Choose the modular deployment model that best aligns with your specific data center design requirements
• Strike the right balance between prefabricated modules and onsite construction to allow for customization where needed
• Prioritize energy efficiency in the design, materials, and construction methods to maximize long-term value
• Take a total cost of ownership perspective when evaluating modular solutions, not just upfront costs

The Future is Modular

Continued exponential innovation in modular data centers will unlock further efficiencies like AI-powered cooling optimization, increased automation, and cost savings through enhanced modular production capabilities and specialized components. As modular construction becomes mainstream over the next 5 years, we can expect greater investment, improved economies of scale, and technology enhancements that will shape the future of the data center industry.

Conclusion

As data center demands increase, operators face cost and capacity challenges. Staying adaptable and efficient requires embracing new ideas and partners. Myriad players are exploring innovative data center construction approaches, including companies likeDC Deployed. By keeping an open mind to new techniques in the industry rather than relying on business as usual, data center operators can build cost-effective capacity that meets future needs. The path forward demands openness to innovation wherever it emerges as demands scale.