Newbuild Electrical Substation Overview

The new electrical substation was constructed to support the additional power loads required for a hotel refurbishment and development project. This document outlined the key aspects of the project, focusing on the review of architectural drawings for constructability, addressing space limitations, and detailing the construction process.

Key Considerations

• Review of Architectural Drawings: Verification of constructability to ensure that the design could be implemented within the existing site constraints.

• Space Limitations: Identifying and addressing constraints that might have impacted the construction and operation of the substation.

Construction Details

• Setting Out of Foundations: Accurate marking of foundation locations to ensure proper alignment and positioning was achieved.

• Groundworks for Strip Foundation: Excavation and preparation of the site for the strip foundations were completed.

• Concrete Pits: Construction of additional foundations for concrete pits that facilitated cable routing was carried out.

• Blockwork for Pit Walls: Installation of blockwork to form the walls of the cable routing pits was performed.

• Backfill Operations: Backfilling between the pits and the higher level strip foundations was conducted to ensure stability and support.

• External Blockwork Walls: Erection of external walls with two openings for access and ventilation took place.

• Flat Roof Construction: Installation of a flat roof over the substation for protection against the elements was completed.

• Structural Slab: Pouring of a structural slab to provide a solid foundation for equipment and operations was accomplished.

• Wind Posts: Installation of wind posts to enhance structural integrity and provide additional support against wind loads was executed.

• Fascia Installation: Installation of fascia boards along the edges of the roof to provide a finished look and prevent water ingress was done.

• Monocouche Rendering: Application of monocouche render to the external walls to provide a weather-resistant finish and enhance aesthetic appeal was performed.

• Surface Preparation: Ensuring surfaces were clean and free from debris before the application of monocouche render for optimal adhesion was completed.

• Finishing Techniques: Techniques such as troweling or brushing were employed to achieve the desired texture and finish on the monocouche render.

Interface Cable Routing

The interface cable routing between the substation and the hotel building was a critical aspect of the project. The following details outlined the routing strategy and considerations:

• Cable Trench Design: Installation of a dedicated cable trench to house the interface cables, ensuring protection and accessibility was carried out.

• Depth and Width Specifications: The trench was excavated to a depth of at least 1 meter and a width of 0.5 meters to accommodate multiple cables and allow for future expansion.

• Separation from Other Utilities: A minimum separation distance of 1 meter from other underground utilities was maintained to prevent interference and ensure safety.

• Conduit Installation: Conduits were used within the trench to protect the cables from moisture and physical damage.

• Backfilling Procedures: The trench was backfilled with suitable material, compacted in layers to prevent settling.

• Access Points: Access points were established at regular intervals along the trench for maintenance and inspection of the cables.

• Termination Points: Termination points at both the substation and hotel building were clearly identified and marked for easy reference during installation and maintenance.

• Testing and Commissioning: Thorough testing of the cable connections was conducted to ensure reliability and performance before the hotel opened.

Conclusion

The construction of the new electrical substation was a critical component of the hotel refurbishment and development project. Careful planning and execution of the outlined construction details, including the interface cable routing, ensured that the substation met the required power loads while adhering to the constraints of the site.