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Project Overview
Client
Hyperscale Data Centre
Location
UK
Date Complete
2025
Sector
Data Centres
Background
A major new hyperscale data centre in the UK required a carefully designed acoustic solution to manage noise from its extensive cooling and heating systems. These installations were positioned along a long elevation at the edge of the site, close to areas where noise control and good visual presentation were essential. The operator needed a barrier that would reduce sound travelling beyond the boundary, complement the architectural language of the wider development, and provide long term durability for a critical infrastructure environment. The brief focused on acoustic performance, structural reliability, and a clean, visually appealing finish.
Challenge
The primary challenge was the height and scale required to achieve effective noise reduction. At 9m high, the barrier had to interrupt the line of sight between mechanical plant and nearby receptors while withstanding the considerable wind loads associated with such a tall structure. The location along the side of the building also created coordination pressures, as installation had to take place alongside ongoing construction activities. The project demanded precise sequencing, reliable access planning, and materials that could be delivered in a manner that supported a controlled and efficient build.
A further consideration was the appearance of the elevation. The design needed to soften the industrial character of the plant zone and provide an attractive screen for local viewpoints. Any solution had to balance robust acoustic function with a natural finish that would help integrate the site into its surroundings.
Traditionally, earth bunds have been used where noise reduction and aesthetics are required; however, earth bunds usually need a very large footprint.
Solution
We supplied a continuous 9m high timber reflective acoustic barrier, supported by steel I beams designed to handle the structural loads associated with the height and length of the installation. The acoustic barrier was manufactured to provide consistent reflective performance along the entire elevation, helping to reduce both tonal and broadband noise generated by the data centre. With deep V tongue and groove boards, the construction reduces gaps that sound could travel through, providing noise reduction of up to 28dB, and a robust anti-climb façade with no hand or footholds.
The steel I beams form the structural backbone of the barrier. Foundation interfaces and fixings were engineered in accordance with the site’s wind conditions and project requirements, ensuring stability and long term reliability. The barrier was installed as a continuous run with carefully considered steps, returns, and details that maintained acoustic integrity even where the ground level or building interfaces changed. The natural timber finish delivered a softer, more visually appealing frontage, transforming what would otherwise be an exposed industrial elevation into a cohesive, well presented boundary. As well as managing noise, the barrier is an effective security fence due to its lack of hand or footholds and conceals services, pipework, and plant, effectively improving both functionality and appearance.
The completed barrier reduces the spread of noise from the cooling and heating systems to sensitive areas around the boundary and supports compliance with the project’s planning noise limits. Its height and continuity improve acoustic performance while the timber finish provides a cleaner and more attractive elevation for the surrounding area.
The structural design of the steel I beam frame ensures the barrier remains resilient under local wind conditions and offers a long service life with a 25 year guarantee against rot, insect attack, and rust, with minimal maintenance requirements; the barrier does not need any painting, staining, or treating throughout its lifetime. The installation process benefited from coordinated logistics, offsite preparation, and clear sequencing, enabling the works to be completed efficiently within the demands of a live data centre construction programme.
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