Systems integration and continuous updates to the building automation system (BAS) at Allstate’s Southwest Data Center in Dallas have proved to be key to consistent uptime and sustained business growth. According to Carl Bradford, facilities manager for the Southwest Data Center, the five-building, multi-use office complex responsibilities have also grown through the consolidation of Allstate’s three data centers into two. “We’ve gone from serving one-third of the country to one-half,” Bradford says. “Fortunately, we have been on a continuous upgrade path with our BAS, which we’ve had in place as a foundation since day one.”
The BAS, designed, installed, and supported by Siemens Building Technologies, has grown in capabilities to continuously serve the complex’s expanding HVAC and facility information management needs. The integration of critical building systems has been a major need at the center, as Bradford explains. “We have bundled Siemens’ services together – HVAC and thermal storage systems, fire alarm/life-safety, security, and lighting – which has enabled us to progressively achieve the optimum efficiency and performance from critical building functions."
Trending and alarm tools further improve system reliability while increasing efficiency of engineers and facility management personnel. For example, displays for the chillers and the cooling towers provide continuous operating status along with historical data. In the event of an out-of-normal condition, alarms signal at the main control console and at the security desk. Engineers throughout the campus are contacted immediately. The BAS is also equipped with a fire system gateway for integration with the center’s automatic sprinkler system. Maintenance software has also been added and integrated into the BAS. Building Automation System by Siemens Building Technologies Inc., Buffalo Grove, IL.
