As commercial projects across the Mountain West grow more complex, skilled electricians are playing a larger role than ever in keeping systems efficient and reliable. From office buildings and hospitals to data centers and industrial facilities, businesses depend on electricians who can maintain uptime, enhance performance and bring modern solutions to the job site.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical system failures account for roughly 13% of all commercial building equipment breakdowns, costing anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 per incident. Skilled tradespeople who can diagnose and prevent these issues aren’t just solving problems — they’re saving companies time and money and building stronger, more in-demand careers.
The True Cost of Inefficiency
In today’s fast-moving construction environment, every minute counts. Traditional, reactive electrical work — waiting until something breaks before fixing it — creates unnecessary downtime and stress. For electricians, this often means rushed repairs, coordination challenges and extra labor hours that could have been avoided with smarter planning.
Modern facilities depend on advanced building automation systems, energy management tools and integrated equipment. Electricians who understand how these systems work together are far more effective on site. Instead of troubleshooting in isolation, they identify root causes and prevent future failures. This efficiency not only benefits the client — it also boosts professional credibility and project success rates.
Why Modern Techniques Matter
Outdated methods can slow down even the most skilled tradesperson. Traditional wiring approaches, manual testing and fragmented coordination between trades create inefficiencies that extend project timelines. In contrast, electricians trained in modern tools and cross-trade collaboration are transforming the job site experience.
At RK Industries, electricians are trained through accredited apprenticeship programs that combine technical expertise with real-world system integration. This includes understanding HVAC controls, automation networks and mechanical coordination — skills that ensure every connection supports overall system performance.
Working Smarter Through Integration
The biggest shift in electrical work today isn’t just about new tools — it’s about collaboration. At RK Industries, electricians work side by side with professionals across mechanical, plumbing and automation trades. This integrated approach eliminates the gaps that often lead to delays, rework and communication breakdowns.
RK’s in-house supply chain also supports greater efficiency. With planned inventory and regional facilities stocked with specialized components, electricians get the materials they need faster, reducing wait times and costly project interruptions.
Advancing Your Career with RK Industries
Electricians who embrace modern techniques and integrated teamwork are shaping the future of the skilled trades. RK Industries provides the environment, tools and training to help electricians do exactly that. With more than 60 years of experience, RK’s electrical division focuses on professional development, safety and long-term career growth through hands-on training and advancement opportunities.
As demand for skilled trades continues to rise across the Mountain West, experienced pipefitters are finding more opportunities than ever to make an impact. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for plumbers and pipefitters is projected to grow 15% through 2032 — well above average. With aging infrastructure and increasingly complex building systems, those who know how to work efficiently with modern tools are positioned to thrive.
The True Cost of Inefficiency
Traditional pipefitting methods often rely on reactive maintenance and outdated coordination processes that waste time and money. On large commercial projects, slow diagnostics and poor communication between trades can turn a one-day repair into a weeklong ordeal. For skilled pipefitters, that kind of inefficiency means missed deadlines, longer hours and greater stress.
Modern buildings require professionals who can balance speed with precision. The ability to use diagnostic technology, streamline workflows and anticipate problems before they escalate separates top performers from the rest.
Modern Tools That Elevate Your Craft
Pipefitters today have access to technology that transforms how they work. Tools such as thermal imaging cameras and digital pressure-testing systems help identify potential issues before they become emergencies. For example, thermal imaging can pinpoint weaknesses in chilled water or steam systems, helping prevent costly rework and unplanned downtime.
Integrated project management platforms are another game-changer. Instead of relying on paper notes and disconnected schedules, modern software connects every stage—from inception to installation—into one cohesive workflow. The result is faster coordination, fewer errors, and better communication across teams.
At RK Industries, pipefitters benefit from access to both cutting-edge tools and cross-trained teams. Working alongside experts in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, RK professionals tackle complex infrastructure challenges without waiting on multiple contractors or outside approvals. The result is a smoother process, faster turnaround, and higher-quality outcomes.
Why Cross-Training Matters
The best pipefitters understand complex systems. Knowing how electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems interact makes you a more valuable team member. RK’s cross-training programs are designed to give tradespeople broader knowledge, helping them diagnose and resolve problems faster while expanding their long-term career potential.
Cross-trained technicians are often the first called for complex projects because they can identify integration issues others might miss. It’s an advantage that not only streamlines project delivery but also builds professional credibility across trades.
Build Your Career with RK Industries
RK Industries invests in people who take pride in their craft. Through apprenticeship programs, advanced training and exposure to high-profile commercial projects, RK pipefitters gain experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re improving your technical skills, learning new technologies or mentoring the next generation, you’ll find the tools and support you need to advance your career.
Ready to join a team that values craftsmanship, innovation, and efficiency?
Apply today to become part of RK Industries and take your pipefitting career to the next level.
Onboarding an Enterprise account is more than a process—it’s the start of a long-term partnership built on trust, collaboration and shared goals. RK Industries’ Enterprise Partner Program (EPP) guides clients through every step, ensuring we understand their needs, build the right team and deliver solutions that exceed expectations. Here’s how we do it.
1. Identify Needs and Build Understanding
Every great partnership starts with discovery. Sometimes our customers know exactly what they want—other times, they just know they have a challenge and a need to solve it. We dive deeper to understand not just what our customer wants or thinks they need, but what they’re trying to achieve. Through open dialogue and thoughtful questions based on our extensive experience, RK’s Enterprise team helps uncover those critical needs or “pain points.” During this stage our team introduces our customers to RK Industries—our values, our capabilities and our full suite of services – so they can see the depth of what we bring to the table.
2. Create Meaningful Connections
After that first conversation, we focus on trust and credibility. The Enterprise team coordinates tours of RK’s facilities, where clients meet our senior managers, production leaders and quality experts. We also visit our customers’ sites, when possible—whether it’s existing facilities or new construction. In fast-moving environments, these site visits happen quickly and are often led by RK’s executive manager for the Enterprise Partner Program and the business unit president or vice president. These face-to-face interactions help establish trust early and lay the groundwork for a true partnership.
3. Develop Tailored Solutions
With alignment in place, we move into solution development. Here’s where collaboration grows even further. The Enterprise Partner Program team…
– Meets internally to determine which RK business units should be part of solution development and delivery.
– Introduces the customer to the RK team that will fulfill their needs. RK’s Enterprise team stays involved for long-term customer relationship management.
– Builds and presents a conceptual solution.
– Presents a proposed Responsibility (or Scope) Matrix that clarifies responsibility and accountability across all stakeholders, including the end-user, general contractor and fabricator. This typically includes design, materials (i.e., who furnishes the equipment) and installation.
The EPP team also encourages and coordinates multiple discussions between RK and the customer’s delivery team to establish a strong framework up-front that aligns expectations. These topics include, but are not limited to:
– Product design
– Engineering
– Manufacturing capacity and backlog constraints
– Ramp-up timing and schedule
– Supply chain strategy
– Risk assessment and mitigation
These structured discussions align every detail before execution begins. This proactive communication minimizes risk and sets the project up for success.
4. Establish Value Beyond Price
By this point, the project is about more than just price—our prospective customer has seen the value in our partnership, our organization and our ability to deliver. In some cases, RK has been verbally awarded significant projects before pricing was even shared…a testament to the strength of our Enterprise Partner Program onboarding approach.
The Keys to Success
Onboarding an Enterprise account takes more than process—it takes discipline and intent. Our approach centers on:
– Building rapport and establishing trust.
– Understanding the customer’s needs and goals.
– Acting decisively and proactively.
– Building the right team with all the needed skill sets for each customer’s unique project.
– Delivering on promises and meeting deadlines.
– Being organized and persistent.
– Demonstrating executive buy-in and involvement.
– Early, frequent and accurate communications.
RK doesn’t just onboard clients by leading with trust and demonstrating value every step of the way—we build partnerships that last.
Interested in learning more about our Enterprise Partner Program or starting a conversation? Visit our Enterprise Partner Program website or contact Matt Schreier, Senior Enterprise Program Manager, at matt.schreier@rkindustries.com.
Fall may be on its way but Colorado isn’t done with the heat just yet. Although the nights are getting cooler, the days remain hot and your systems are still working overtime. With a few simple changes and smart habits, you can reduce your energy use without compromising comfort.
Here are five easy ways to stay efficient and keep energy costs in check during this late-summer stretch:
1. Unplug Unused Devices
Electronics like TVs, gaming consoles and chargers continue drawing power even when they’re turned off. Unplug devices that aren’t regularly used to eliminate phantom energy use and reduce waste.
2. Cook and Clean Smarter
On hot days, avoid using large appliances like ovens that generate extra heat and consume more power. Smaller appliances such as toaster ovens and electric skillets use about one-third the energy of a standard oven. Likewise, wash full laundry loads in cold water—90% of washer energy goes to heating water.
3. Maintain Your A/C
A little maintenance can go a long way. Replacing a dirty air filter can improve cooling efficiency by up to 15%. Change filters regularly and schedule seasonal inspections to ensure your system is running at peak performance.
4. Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise. This helps circulate cooler air downward, allowing you to increase your thermostat a few degrees while maintaining comfort. Just remember to turn fans off in unoccupied rooms.
5. Take Advantage of Natural Light
Late-summer days still bring plenty of sunshine. Use daylight whenever possible and switch off unnecessary lighting to reduce internal heat and lower electricity usage.
Stay Ahead of Heat Costs
Proactive energy habits add up quickly—and RK Service is here to help. From system inspections to energy efficiency upgrades, we offer expert solutions that keep your building performing at its best, no matter what the temperature is outside.
Call 303.576.9696 to schedule a system check-up or visit rkservice.com to learn more about how we can support your facility.
In today’s dynamic and competitive market, delivering exceptional customer experiences is paramount. We understand this necessity and have developed the Enterprise Partner Program (EPP) to ensure our customers receive unparalleled service and solutions.
Unified Solutions, Seamlessly Delivered
RK Industries is a leading innovator in construction, fabrication and off-site manufacturing. More specifically, with seven distinct lines of business, we’re a diverse, multi-trade enterprise offering solutions spanning mechanical, electrical, plumbing, steel and water treatment systems. The EPP integrates RK’s seven lines of business, providing a single point of contact and ensuring a collaborative approach to solving our customers’ challenges. This seamless integration simplifies complex projects, improves efficiency and fosters long-term partnerships.
What We Do
The EPP is RK’s strategic approach to providing a holistic and personalized experience. By offering visibility into all of RK’s business unit offerings, we ensure that our customers fully understand and have the opportunity to leverage our collective capabilities. We engage with enterprise customers, listen to their requirements and craft tailored solutions that span multiple disciplines. This program is not just about winning projects; it’s about building lasting relationships and becoming true partners and trusted advisors.
Key Features of the Enterprise Partner Program
– Single Point of Contact (POC): Streamlined communication through a dedicated POC.
– Business Unit Collaboration: More efficient use of time and improved coordination for comprehensive project solutions
– Customer-Centric Approach: Focused on consultation and partnership to understand and meet our customers’ needs.
– Relationship Development: Corporate commitment to long-term relationships built on trust.
– Industry Expertise: Backed by decades of experience, with active support from business unit leaders and C-suite involvement.
Why Customers Choose Us
Our team is intentional, strategic and customer-focused. Guided by core values of relationships, accountability, collaboration and passion, we foster trust, deliver results and create meaningful partnerships. Our detailed, proactive and resilient mindset, backed by a creative and strategic approach to problem-solving, sets us apart. We go above and beyond, leaving customers feeling encouraged, excited and confident. Through our EPP, customers gain a trusted partner who listens, consults and delivers customized, innovative solutions.
Conclusion
RK’s Enterprise Partner Program is designed to streamline and enhance the value we provide to our customers. This program is more than a service; it’s a commitment to elevating the customer experience. By acting as trusted advisors and delivering seamless, integrated solutions, we help our customers succeed at every stage of their journey.
Want to learn more? Visit our Enterprise Partner Program website or contact Matt Schreier, Senior Enterprise Program Manager, at matt.schreier@rkindustries.com.
RK Mechanical and JE Dunn Construction (JE Dunn) have partnered on the mechanical construction of the University of Wyoming’s new residential campus expansion, delivering more than 325,000 square feet of cutting-edge living and dining space across two buildings.
The North Building spans nearly 190,000 square feet and features 218 residence rooms and a two-story dining hall with state-of-the-art mechanical support systems. The South Building includes 285 student units across 136,500 square feet of space, solely dedicated to student living.
This project demanded innovation from day one. RK Mechanical has installed seven complex systems that intricately connect both structures. Unique to this job, RK tied into the University’s underground network with a three-stage hydronic piping system—an uncommon but critical solution to efficiently deliver heating and cooling across campus.
Pushing the Limits of Installation and Teamwork
Prefabricated mechanical components weighing between 8,000 to 13,000 pounds each were expertly maneuvered through tight vertical shafts using skilled riggers and radio communication. Massive ducts measuring 120 by 48 feet—large enough to walk through—were installed to manage the tremendous air handling demands.
The RK team showcased its flexibility by adapting to challenges such as student pedestrian hazards and Wyoming’s relentless winds, which pose a safety risk and can cause delays due to crane shutdowns. On-site collaboration was also crucial: plumbers, sheet metal workers and pipefitters worked side-by-side, often crossing trades to complete tasks together. Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) modeling and prefabrication practices greatly enhanced installation speed and precision.
Watch Our Teams Work
See us in action on this project by watching the short video below!
Gold Standard in Safety and Partnership
RK’s commitment to safety extends beyond industry norms, with a second “stretch-and-flex” session each day during lunch to address immediate job site needs. RK’s proactive, award-winning culture and teamwork have been recognized with the 2024 Safety Excellence Award from JE Dunn, the project’s General Contractor—a true honor that cements RK Mechanical’s and JE Dunn’s partnership as the gold standard for safety, flexibility and excellence.
Throughout this project, JE Dunn has been an exceptional partner, working closely with RK Mechanical to solve complex sequencing challenges and maintain a united front in navigating shifting timelines, weather-related disruptions and intricate site logistics. From daily coordination to long-term planning, our collaboration with JE Dunn has been marked by transparency, mutual respect and a shared commitment to delivering a safe, high-quality result for the University of Wyoming.
RK Mechanical is honored to help shape the future of the University of Wyoming and proud to set a higher standard for what’s possible in mechanical construction.
Interested in learning more? Visit RK Mechanical or contact us today!
Don’t forget to check out the capabilities of our exceptional partner, JE Dunn.
RK Electrical, a subsidiary of RK Industries, LLC and a recognized leader in commercial and industrial electrical contracting, has officially expanded its operations into Arizona with the opening of a new full-service facility in Phoenix. This marks a strategic milestone in RK Industries’ continued growth throughout the Mountain West and reaffirms our commitment to providing innovative, efficient and dependable electrical solutions to new and existing clients in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions.
A New Hub for High-Performance Projects
Located at 2225 W. Parkside Lane, the new 17,300-square-foot Phoenix facility includes over 11,500 square feet dedicated to advanced electrical and mechanical fabrication. This significant investment not only expands our physical footprint but also enhances our ability to deliver highly customized, end-to-end electrical services to Arizona’s booming commercial and industrial markets.
Whether we’re powering a manufacturing plant, healthcare facility or mission-critical data center, RK Electrical is positioned to support projects of every size and complexity with precision and speed.
What Sets RK Electrical Apart
RK Electrical isn’t just another electrical contractor—we’re a solutions partner trusted by general contractors and developers across the Mountain West. Our core differentiators include:
– End-to-End Capabilities: From planning and value engineering to Virtual Design and Construction (VDC), fabrication and final installation, RK Electrical provides full lifecycle electrical services tailored to each customer’s vision and budget.
– Licensed Electricians: Unlike many contractors in Arizona, who aren’t required to hold licensure, RK Electrical ensures that every project is led by experienced, licensed professionals. This commitment sets RK Electrical apart, delivering higher standards of safety, accountability and craftsmanship that our clients can rely on.
– Low-Voltage, Building Automation System and Fire Alarm: Expertly installed and maintained for seamless operation and long-term reliability.
– Industry-Specific Expertise: RK Electrical brings deep knowledge of key sectors, including data centers, healthcare, education and commercial development, helping you meet demanding schedules, safety standards and performance goals.
A Relationship-First Approach
What truly powers RK Electrical’s success is our dedication to building lasting relationships. We don’t just show up for projects—we partner with our clients to solve problems, streamline processes and deliver outstanding results. Transparency, accountability and collaboration are the pillars of every engagement.
Join Us in Building the Future of Arizona
As Arizona continues to grow, the need for reliable, forward-thinking electrical solutions has never been greater. RK Electrical is proud to be part of that future, bringing the tools, talent and technology to energize tomorrow’s infrastructure.
Visit rkelectrical.com to learn more and contact our team!
When a potable water or fire main break occurs on your property, it can lead to significant disruption and potential damage if not promptly addressed. As a property manager in Denver, Colorado, you must act swiftly and efficiently to mitigate water damage, ensure safety and restore service. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the steps to take upon witnessing a water or fire main break in your parking lot or surrounding area.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Evaluate the Situation
The first thing to consider is the safety of the people on your property. Large amounts of water can create slippery surfaces, erode soil under sidewalks or parking lots and flood buildings, all of which pose hazards to tenants, employees and visitors.
- Assess the extent of the water leak: Observe how much water is flowing, whether it’s impacting structures and if there are immediate threats to life or property.
- Clear the area: If the break creates a safety hazard, ensure people move away from the affected area. Use barriers or caution tape to prevent accidents.
Step 2: Notify Denver Water or Your Local Water District Immediately
Once you’ve assessed the situation, the next step is to contact Denver Water or the local water district listed on your water bill.
- Call Denver Water’s Emergency Line: Reach their team at 303.628.6801. Provide details about the incident, including: The exact location of the break, whether the break is causing flooding or significant water damage and any safety concerns requiring immediate attention.
- Wait for a response: Denver Water will dispatch a team to shut off the main water supply. Be prepared for potential delays if they’re handling multiple emergencies. While waiting, continue monitoring the situation and ensuring safety.
Step 3: Document the Incident for Future Reference
While waiting, take the opportunity to document the incident. Comprehensive documentation can be valuable for insurance claims, legal purposes or reporting to stakeholders.
- Take photographs and videos: Capture images of the water break, surrounding damage and affected areas. Include pictures from multiple angles.
- Record detailed notes: Write down when you discovered the break, when you contacted Denver Water and any notable observations. Include the names of officials or contractors you communicate with.
Step 4: Choose a Qualified Contractor for Repairs
After Denver Water shuts off the water and assesses the situation, hire a contractor to repair the broken main. Selecting a licensed and experienced contractor who understands local codes is critical.
- Seek a contractor with appropriate licensing: Ensure the contractor holds a valid license with the State of Colorado. They should handle permits and any required right-of-way access.
- Verify experience and references: Choose a contractor with a proven track record in water or fire main repairs. Ask for references or case studies.
- Confirm insurance and bonding for commercial real estate: The contractor should have liability insurance and be bonded to protect against unforeseen issues. Request proof of insurance listing your company and property as additional insureds.
Step 5: Obtain Necessary Permits and Plan the Repair
Working on a potable water or fire main often requires permits from the City and County of Denver or the local jurisdiction. Your contractor should manage the permitting process, but stay informed to ensure compliance.
- Coordinate with Denver Water and city inspectors: Denver Water may need to inspect the repairs, and city officials might review the site before or after work is completed.
- Plan for minimal disruption: Repairs can take hours or days. Develop plans to minimize inconvenience for tenants or businesses, like arranging temporary water sources or portable restroom facilities.
Step 6: Conduct Post-Repair Inspections and Restoration
Once the repair is complete, ensure everything is restored and meets required standards.
- Inspect the repair site: Walk through the area with your contractor to confirm the repair was done to your satisfaction and complies with jurisdictional specifications.
- Check for residual damage: Inspect landscaping, pavement or building foundations for damage caused by the water break. Plan any necessary restoration work, such as regrading soil or replacing asphalt.
- Restore fire protection systems: If the fire main was involved, verify the fire suppression system is fully operational before closing the issue. You may need fire safety professionals for a final inspection.
Step 7: Review Your Emergency Response Plan
Use the incident as an opportunity to improve your emergency response plan.
- Assess your preparedness: Determine whether your team handled the situation efficiently and identify areas for improvement.
- Update your emergency contacts and resources: Ensure your list of contacts, including Denver Water, local fire departments and contractors, is current. Train staff on how to manage future incidents effectively.
To wrap it up…
Handling a potable water or fire main break efficiently requires quick thinking, strategic action and collaboration with professionals. By following these steps and working closely with Denver Water and a licensed contractor, you can minimize damage, ensure safety and restore service quickly. Be prepared and vigilant—fast action is key to protecting your property and the people who depend on you. Give RK Service a call at 877.576.9696 for 24/7 service that keeps you up and running day or night.
Critical facilities are evolving at a rapid pace as data centers expand to meet the demands of modern technology. With the explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-intensive applications, these facilities require more power and scalable solutions to ensure uninterrupted operation. Companies are increasingly turning to innovative infrastructure solutions like e-houses, power modules and electrical SKIDs to maintain performance and overcome the skilled labor shortage in the United States while assisting the need for shorter construction durations. Keep reading to explore the key differences between these solutions, the impact of AI on data center power requirements and the benefits of data center campuses.
The Rise of AI and its Impact on Power Demand
AI is transforming industries across the board, from tech to healthcare and manufacturing. The algorithms driving AI require massive amounts of data and power, which places unprecedented pressure on data centers. As AI applications become more sophisticated, the energy needed to keep data centers running smoothly has skyrocketed.
This surge in demand poses a significant challenge, especially as the number of people entering skilled trades has decreased. The shortage of skilled labor makes it harder to meet the growing needs of data centers using traditional power infrastructure. However, the industry has found a solution in prefabricated systems that offer scalability and flexibility, requiring minimal on-site labor to install.
The Key Differences Between E-Houses, Power Modules and Electrical SKIDs
Although e-houses, power modules and electrical SKIDs all provide critical power infrastructure, they differ in design, functionality and ideal use cases. Understanding these differences can help companies make informed decisions when choosing the right solution for their needs.
1. E-Houses: Customization and Flexibility
– Design: E-houses, or electrical houses, are pre-assembled modular structures designed to house electrical equipment that provides power distribution for ancillary equipment outside the direct power needed for IT hardware. They’re fully customizable and can be configured to meet specific requirements based on the facility’s needs.
– Installation: While pre-assembled off-site, e-houses often require more on-site labor for installation and integration into the existing power infrastructure. This includes connecting external power and communication lines, as well as ensuring compatibility with other systems.
– Use Case: E-houses are typically used where the environment demands a high level of customization and protection from external elements. They’re ideal for projects requiring robust, specialized power distribution systems that might need extensive configuration.
2. Power Modules: Consistency and Scalability
– Design: Power modules are self-contained units that provide a modular approach to power distribution for critical loads within a data center. Each module typically includes components such as uninterruptable power supplies (UPS), switchgear, distribution panel boards, transfer switches, electrical power monitoring systems and self-contained HVAC systems, all housed within a single purpose-built enclosure. These modules are designed to be scalable, allowing data centers to expand their power capacity as their needs grow without significant infrastructure changes.
– Installation: Power modules are designed for rapid deployment and require minimal on-site labor. The modules arrive pre-wired and ready for quick connection, making them perfect for projects with tight timelines or labor shortages. While power connections and battery backups are typically housed within a data center, RK Mission Critical’s modular approach takes these functions and moves them outside the data center to free up space for revenue-generating activities.
– Use Case: Power modules are widely used in data centers and critical facilities where reliability and scalability are paramount. Their key function is to provide intermittent battery backup, ensuring continuous operation when the power goes out. When the power supply is interrupted, power modules kick in by switching to battery power, providing enough time for backup generators to get warmed up and running. As AI demands more power, power modules also allow companies to scale up their infrastructure quickly without lengthy construction periods, making them a preferred choice for high-growth environments like data centers.
3. Electrical SKIDs: Compact, Turnkey Solutions
– Design: Electrical SKIDs are pre-assembled platforms that house electrical components in a compact, easy-to-install package. While they share similarities with power modules, they’re often more compact and designed for plug-and-play functionality.
– Installation: Like power modules, electrical SKIDs require very little on-site labor. They’re engineered to be ready for immediate integration, which allows facilities to implement them rapidly with minimal downtime.
– Use Case: Electrical SKIDs are common in heavy industries such as oil & gas, power generation, and industrial applications. They’re increasingly being adopted in data centers where space is at a premium, offering a small footprint and quick installation. SKIDs are particularly useful in facilities requiring fast upgrades or expansions.
Summary of Differences
Customization: E-houses offer the highest level of customization, followed by power modules with semi-custom options, while electrical SKIDs are the most standardized, offering quick plug-and-play integration.
Speed of Deployment: Power modules and electrical SKIDs provide rapid deployment with minimal on-site labor, whereas e-houses can require more time for installation and integration.
Footprint: Electrical SKIDs offer the smallest footprint, making them ideal for space-constrained environments. Power modules also offer a compact solution, while e-houses tend to be larger and more expansive due to their customizable nature.
Best Fit: E-houses are suited for specialized industries with unique power requirements, power modules excel in fast-growing sectors like data centers and electrical SKIDs provide a compact, ready-to-use solution for industries needing quick upgrades or expansions.
By understanding these key differences, businesses can choose the most suitable power infrastructure solution that aligns with their operational demands, available space and future growth.
The Growing Appeal of Data Center Campuses
As AI continues to drive demand for data processing, companies are increasingly building data center campuses—large, multi-building complexes designed to support massive amounts of computing power. These campuses offer several advantages over traditional, smaller data centers.
– Scalability: Data center campuses allow companies to scale up quickly, adding new power modules, e-houses or electrical SKIDs as needed.
– Efficiency: The centralization of multiple data centers within a single campus reduces operational complexity, allowing for more streamlined power and cooling management.
– Future-Proofing: With AI poised to drive exponential growth in data processing, campuses are a forward-looking solution that can accommodate future demand without constant, disruptive upgrades.
The Keys to a Sustainable Future
The rise of AI has fundamentally changed the power landscape for data centers. With power demands growing rapidly and skilled labor in short supply, companies need fast, scalable solutions to keep up. Power modules stand out as the ideal answer to this challenge, offering speed, efficiency, and minimal labor requirements. When combined with the benefits of data center campuses, these solutions provide a pathway to sustainable, future-proof data center operations that can meet the evolving needs of AI-driven industries.
To wrap it up…
As technology continues to advance, the infrastructure supporting critical facilities must also evolve. By leveraging the strengths of e-houses, power modules and electrical SKIDs, companies can stay ahead of the curve and keep their data centers running at peak performance—no matter what the future holds. If you’re looking to explore the possibilities of e-houses, power modules or electrical SKIDs, the experts at RK Mission Critical are ready to bring your vision to life. Contact us today at 303.355.9696 or email Jesse Davern, VP—Commercial Services, at jesse.davern@rkmissioncritical.com.
In a data-driven world where uptime is critical and efficiency is paramount, power modules have emerged as a key component in ensuring data centers operate smoothly. These vital building blocks are essential for maintaining the high levels of reliability and productivity that modern data centers demand. If you’re unfamiliar with power modules and how they’re becoming increasingly relevant, let’s start with the basics and learn what power modules are, how they’re used and the benefits of using power modules in data centers.
What are Power Modules?
Power modules are self-contained units that provide a modular approach to power distribution for critical loads within a data center. These modules package electrical equipment together to support mechanical and IT loads. Each module typically includes components such as uninterruptable power supplies (UPS), switchgear, distribution panel boards, transfer switches, electrical power monitoring systems and self-contained HVAC systems, all housed within a single purpose-built enclosure. These modules are designed to be scalable, allowing data centers to expand their power capacity as their needs grow without significant infrastructure changes.
How Do Power Modules Work?
At their core, power modules function by distributing electrical power to various components of the data center, such as servers, networking equipment and cooling systems. They’re designed to handle high loads and provide the data center with stable power during utility blackouts or brownouts. In both cases, power modules provide the critical load while on-site power generation has time to turn on.
Power modules are highly scalable, and their modularity allows data centers to expand their power capacity incrementally, adding critical infrastructure as they grow. The flexibility of power modules also extends to their placement—many modern data centers now house these modules outside the main facility, freeing up valuable space within the data center for revenue-generating activities.
Benefits of Using Power Modules in Data Centers
– Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS): Power modules provide intermittent battery backup, ensuring continuous operation when the power goes out. When the power supply is interrupted, power modules kick in by switching over to battery power, providing enough time for backup generators to get warmed up and running.
– Scalable and Modular: Unlike traditional stick-built electrical rooms, power modules allow data centers to bring new capacity online quickly, all while conserving capital by not over-building on day one. This scalable and modular approach simplifies the installation process and allows for less-skilled electricians on-site, which can help projects stay on schedule. This is especially important given the current shortage of skilled labor in the United States.
– Reliable and Stable: Power modules are designed with redundancy in mind, including features like dual power inputs and automatic transfer switchgear. This ensures that the data center remains operational even if one component fails. This level of reliability is essential for maintaining the continuous operation of critical services.
– Off-Site Manufactured: Off-site manufactured power modules increase the overall quality of a data center’s power distribution system. Off-site manufacturing in a controlled environment, with key manufacturing quality hold points and test stations, gives the data center operator the comfort of knowing that their critical power load won’t be dropped in the event of a power outage.
– Easy to Maintain: The modular nature of power modules means that individual power modules or components can be serviced or replaced without disrupting the entire power distribution system. This reduces downtime and allows for more straightforward maintenance procedures.
What Sets RK Mission Critical Apart?
RK Mission Critical is renowned for its operational excellence and innovative modular solutions. With facilities spanning 422,000 square feet (including 11 40-ft. wide production lanes!) and a commitment to Lean Six Sigma principles, RK Mission Critical excels in delivering high-quality, high-volume, scalable power modules that meet the most demanding project needs and expedited timelines. Our proprietary product development process, integrated with real-time micro-metrics and built-in quality, safety and productivity, ensures that each project phase is meticulously managed. This process not only reduces concept-to-production time but also guarantees a competitive advantage in the market.
RK Mission Critical is also one of seven business units under the RK Industries umbrella, which provides comprehensive service offerings to ensure that work is kept in-house and rarely subcontracted outside RK Industries. This holistic approach—encompassing in-house structural steel through RK Steel and other trades—enhances efficiency and quality control, which is just one reason why RK Mission Critical is a leading global provider of power module capabilities.
To wrap it up…
Power modules are truly the backbone of modern data centers, providing the flexibility, reliability and efficiency needed to meet the demands of today’s digital landscape. As data centers continue to evolve, the adoption of power modules—and the innovative solutions provided by RK—will become even more widespread, ensuring that these critical infrastructures remain operational and efficient in the face of growing challenges.
If you’re looking to explore the possibilities of power modules, the experts at RK Mission Critical are ready to bring your vision to life. Contact us today at 303.355.9696 or email Jesse Davern, VP—Commercial Services, at jesse.davern@rkmissioncritical.com.