Next DC M2 Data Centre

Symal Contractors partnered with Kapitol Group to deliver stages 5 and 6 of the expansion of NEXTDC’s 60MW M2 facility at Tullamarine, the biggest Tier IV-certified Data Centre in Australia.

This included the design and construction of several data halls purpose-built to enable the current and future expansion requirements of Global Cloud Platform providers.

The state-of-the-art facility introduced innovative building practices not previously used in data centre construction. The use of super T bridge beam superstructures in the data halls eliminated the need for columns and created additional net lettable area (NLA). The use of the super T’s also allows for maximum efficiency and flexibility in the layout and arrangement of data racks.

Our scope of works included:

• Install of precast (hollowcore planks, Super T’s, walls, stairs, etc.)

• Piling and retention systems

• Bulk earthworks and detailed excavation

• Combined services trenching

• In-ground structures including ground slab

• Concrete retaining walls

• Temporary hardstands

• Suspended concrete structure

The site remained live and secure throughout both stages of the project, creating unique challenges while working between existing structures. Vibration monitoring equipment was set up in key areas, coordinating with the facility management team to ensure that existing structures and systems weren’t impacted.

Contractors’ broad capability enabled us to safely take on interface risk between packages (i.e. civil and structural), managing program handover and scope gap between internal delivery teams.