The AKL02 Data Centre on Auckland’s North Shore is a mission-critical facility designed to support continuous digital operations within a developed urban environment. With large mechanical plant operating around the clock, both rooftop and internal equipment required dependable ventilation while controlling noise and maintaining the performance of the building envelope.

The rooftop plant area is surrounded by Ventuer AL-600V acoustic louvres, selected to manage noise breakout from mechanical equipment while maintaining the airflow required for plant operation. The chillers located behind the screens rely on horizontal airflow to operate efficiently, making it essential that air could pass freely through the acoustic louvre system. Maintaining this airflow path supports optimum chiller performance, improving energy efficiency and helping reduce overall energy consumption and associated carbon emissions.

Ventilation to mechanical equipment located within the building was provided through Ventuer VL-100S ventilation louvres installed into the façade. These louvres provide reliable airflow to internal plant areas while maintaining weather protection and the integrity of the building envelope.

To support the construction programme, the louvre systems were designed and manufactured as large modular assemblies. This modular approach allowed sections to be craned directly into position, reducing installation time and enabling consistent alignment across long façade and rooftop runs. Installation details were developed to accommodate out-of-tolerance structural steel, allowing the modules to be adjusted and secured without compromising performance or visual alignment.

Ventuer provided the full design scope for the louvre systems, including shop drawings, structural engineering, and the design of installation equipment such as lifting jigs and support arrangements. Early preconstruction planning enabled all modules to be manufactured ahead of schedule and stored in standard shipping containers, ensuring the product was protected and readily available when required on site.

Durability and long-term appearance were also key considerations. All louvre systems were finished with a high-quality powdercoat coating selected to provide long-term corrosion resistance while maintaining a consistent architectural finish across both rooftop and façade installations.

Given the critical role of ventilation and acoustic control within a data centre environment, tested and certified performance was an essential requirement. The selected louvre systems were supported by verified performance data, providing confidence that airflow, weather resistance, and acoustic requirements would be met under operating conditions.

Now in operation, the AKL02 Data Centre demonstrates how carefully engineered acoustic screening and ventilation louvre systems can support efficient plant operation while managing environmental impact within a dense urban setting.