McKenney's, Inc. Automation and Controls Team Helps Fort Gillem to Operate at Peak Energy Efficiency

Online, October 16, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The new network communications building at Fort Gillem near Atlanta, Georgia houses complex network servers and conduit racks and is the hub for all communications on the base. The building contains a network room, office, restroom and underground vault. Space is at a premium. As a result, McKenney's, Inc. team of automation and controls experts worked closely with the general contractor and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to establish an optimal environment for peak mechanical equipment performance.

Project Team
o General Contractor: RC Construction Co., Inc.
o Owner: Fort Gillem, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

McKenney's devised a strategy, involving several controllers, to regulate temperature, humidity and other environmental set points for the space. Four factory controllers were installed for the individual NRAC units and the team also deployed a programmable, inter-operable MicroNet 800 Series master controller to provide rotation sequencing and to ensure failure/backup operation for the NRACs.

USACE team members were ecstatic when it was revealed that the controller was self sustaining. It is programmed to automatically activate additional NRAC units as required to accommodate increased capacity and is prepped for integration with future remote access via military communications networks.

Controllers only work if ductwork is configured properly. McKenney's accommodated the many ductwork redesigns by providing and incorporating isolation dampers for installation directly on air units to more effectively control air flow as required. As a result, if additional reconfiguration is necessary, the isolation dampers will minimize its effect on the entire system.

As with any military project, security was a critical element. McKenney's deployed an anti-terrorism switch to isolate the building from outside threats. With the push of a button, intake and exhaust fans stop and the building's environmental controls are handled completely from within the structure. Fort Gillem network communications building now operates at peak energy efficiency.

Since 1948, the mission of McKenney's has been to meet or exceed customer expectations on every job we perform. We offer expertise in HVAC, process piping, plumbing, and building automation and control systems, as well as service and maintenance. We have our own in-house engineering, fabrication, installation, and commissioning resources to ensure cost-effective delivery of the highest quality solutions.

We offer an array of services:
o Preconstruction
o Engineering solutions
o New construction
o Tenant and special projects
o Automation and controls
o Commissioning
o Service and maintenance

We've developed services and expertise to serve our clients at every stage - from design and construction to services and maintenance. Self-performance of all trades, in-house shops and over 60 years of experience ensures top-quality solutions every time you work with McKenney's.

About Us:
McKenney's is the Southeast's most trusted name in facility construction, operation and maintenance. For more than 60 years, our proven approach has ensured high-quality, energy-efficient solutions at every stage of a building's lifecycle.

Contact us:
McKenney's, Inc.
1056 Moreland Industrial Boulevard
Atlanta, Georgia 30316
404-622-5000

3601 Performance Road
Charlotte, North Carolina 28214
704-357-1200

sales@mckenneys.com
http://www.mckenneys.com