Concrete Bunkers - The Carbide Conundrum
Sometimes, even encasing a data centre within a 2-foot-thick concrete vault isn’t enough to prevent microscopic intruders from fouling-up the system. One of my more remarkable cases involved just that, at a carbide mine in Ontario.
They had been experiencing a series of equipment failures, leaving a trail of incidents pointing to a possible, yet perplexing, cause.
The data centre there was fortified within a solid, 24-inch thick concrete structure resembling a pillbox, a precaution taken due to the known conductivity of carbide dust and its potential to disrupt computer operations. It seemed logical to assume that such formidable barriers would safeguard the electronic nerve centre. However, this assumption was quickly proven wrong.
The reality was that carbide molecules, with their incredibly small size, managed to penetrate the seemingly unbreakable barrier designed to exclude them. To combat this, we implemented positive pressurization within the room to block any external contaminants from infiltrating. A new UPS was installed, but even that blew up shortly after it was switched on. In response, we encapsulated the UPS system and the printed circuit boards in a protective epoxy coating to insulate them from the invasive carbide dust.
But even that didn’t last, delivering one of the very, very few instances in which could not be readily found. Microscopic invaders always test limits.
The breakthrough came with the introduction of an ABC active voltage conditioner, addressing the voltage sag issues. Installed with a fully sealed NEMA 4 system, this solution effectively mitigated the risks posed by the airborne carbon filaments, giving us a victory, a lasting solution, and a satisfied customer.
Drawing on our extensive expertise and years of experience in addressing complex power quality issues, clients turn to Encompass Power because of the trust they place in our ability to resolve even the most perplexing equipment failures. Our work is not just about fixing problems; it’s about leading the way in finding solutions where others see insurmountable challenges. This reputation for excellence and reliability in our field is built on a foundation of successful outcomes and the deep trust our clients have in our work.
At Encompass Power, we thrive on turning workplace challenges into opportunities for innovation and success, reinforcing the confidence our clients have in our capabilities to navigate and resolve the intricacies of power quality issues. For expert solutions to your power quality challenges, contact Encompass Power Solutions today.