Modular Building Reference Architecture

Overview

The Modular Building Reference Architecture addresses the middle ground between container-based deployments and full building + skid programs. It uses factory-built structural modules that are transported to site and assembled into a complete data center facility with conventional building characteristics: walls, roofing, interior corridors, and support spaces.

This architecture is designed for programs in the 1MW to 20MW range where the speed advantages of prefabrication are important but the capacity and permanence requirements exceed what container solutions can efficiently deliver.

Module Types and Configurations

The architecture defines several module types that combine to form a complete facility. Each module type has standardized dimensions, interface points, and internal configurations. Modules are designed for road transport within standard over-dimensional permit envelopes.

IT Modules

IT modules contain the white space environment: rack rows, containment systems, power distribution to rack level, and in-module cooling distribution. Standard configurations support rack densities from 6kW to 30kW per rack with either air-cooled or chilled water cooling distribution.

Electrical Modules

Electrical modules house switchgear, UPS systems, power distribution equipment, and associated monitoring and protection systems. They connect to IT modules through defined bus or cable interfaces and to external utility/generator sources through standardized service entrance provisions.

Mechanical Modules

Mechanical modules contain air handling equipment, pumps, piping manifolds, and controls for the cooling distribution system. They interface with external heat rejection equipment (chillers, dry coolers, or cooling towers positioned at grade or on module rooftops) and distribute conditioned air or chilled water to IT modules.

Support Modules

Support modules provide entry vestibules, network meet-me rooms, operations workspaces, storage, and corridor connections between functional modules. They are critical for creating a functional facility layout with proper security zones, fire compartments, and code-compliant egress paths.

Assembly and Site Integration

Modules are assembled on prepared foundations at the deployment site. The assembly process connects structural, electrical, mechanical, and controls interfaces between modules according to the interface specification package. Site work includes foundation preparation, utility connections, external equipment placement, and site security infrastructure.

Phased Growth Strategy

The architecture supports phased capacity additions by defining how new modules connect to existing infrastructure. Initial deployments include provisions for future module positions, utility connections, and infrastructure headroom. Growth phases can add IT capacity, redundancy upgrades, or support functions without disrupting operating modules.

Interface Standardization

Every module type has a defined interface specification covering structural connections (bolt patterns, alignment features, weatherproofing), electrical connections (bus ratings, cable terminations, grounding), mechanical connections (pipe sizes, flanges, insulation requirements), and controls connections (protocols, cabling, network ports). Standardization allows modules from different production runs to be interconnected without field engineering.

Code and Regulatory Considerations

Modular buildings are treated as permanent structures under most building codes, which means they must comply with the same structural, fire protection, energy, and accessibility requirements as conventionally-built facilities. The reference architecture addresses code compliance through factory inspection programs, third-party certification, and site-level building permit coordination.