SPIE modernizes the electrical infrastructure of the Westend Gate tower in Frankfurt without interrupting services

SPIE provided the modernization of the Westend Gate's electrical infrastructure, replacing the original devices dating from the 1970s. The multi-technical service provider not only refurbished the power supply on the 47 floors of the building, but also various security and alarm systems (fire alarms, voice alarms, security systems, access control, lighting and emergency lighting), as well as data networks and multimedia systems. In addition to the work carried out in the common areas, the company also carried out major improvement work for the tenants.

Precise planning to avoid noise pollution

This contract was a logistical tour de force. As the Westend Gate housed offices as well as hotel and catering areas, SPIE had to carry out all the work without interrupting the daily use of the building. Consequently, operations that could cause noise pollution were carried out only during periods of time determined in advance with the owner and the tenants of the building. Initially, the interventions of the SPIE teams were limited to a maximum of two hours per day. But they were then reduced to three hours on Saturdays and only on notice. “This change required exceptional planning skills from our project team,” explains Turhan Can, director of the Rüsselsheim branch in the Building Technology & Automation business division of SPIE. “So to modernize the electrical systems of the stairwell, for example, we used the wet drilling method. These are specific machines that emit no impact noise. "

Modernization without interruption of service

Other challenges include replacing the main low-voltage distribution boards, for daily and emergency power supply, and medium-voltage switchgear, without disrupting the daily operation of the building. “Modernizations and technical modifications to existing buildings are more and more frequent today,” explains Turhan Can. "We must therefore ensure that the power supply to a building always remains operational, and that its daily operation is not disturbed". In order to replace the main 10 kV medium voltage power supply system while ensuring the continuity of the electricity supply to the tower during the works, the multi-technical service provider had to install two medium voltage switching systems in a container rented, installed in the building's service yard. SPIE succeeded in completing all the work on the medium voltage switchgear in just seven months.

Tailor-made solutions and efficient implementation

Thanks to a partnership focused on solutions and cooperation with the client, as well as its proven experience, know-how and particularly effective approach of its team, the multi-technical service provider SPIE has established itself from the start of the contract, in 2013, as the preferred partner for all Westend Gate electrical work. As a result, the company won many additional orders on the basis of this initial contract. In 2015 and 2016, for example, she built the electrical infrastructure for the Aparthotel Adagio. SPIE also regularly participates in the implementation of various leasehold improvements. “When office space is re-let, we take care of the interior electrical installations and the preparation of the equipment for the new occupant, always on time and in accordance with the latter's requirements,” explains Turhan Can. During peak hours, a team of 30 people work in the building.