556th TES SCIF

Additional Info

Award Winner : Affordable Structures

Architectural Excellence : This building was specifically designed to process classified data for the Air Force at a remote location in the Nevada desert. It is IBC type IV non- combustible structure with 9 ga expanded steel sheathing on all exterior walls with (2) layers of FB gypsum each side of walls with sound sealant. The specifications for classified facilities (aka SCIF) are published in a DOD bulletin which dictates interior / exterior wall assemblies, STC ratings, intrusion detection and access control The design and construction is audited by DOD from inception to accreditation. SCIF buildings are intended to be very generic looking and non-descriptive by design, so as to not become targets for potential interception & wireless intrusion of classified data.

Cost Energy Effectiveness : The cost of a SCIF typically is 5-7X that of a normal business occupancy structure. The time to complete if conventionally built is typically 12 months, adding more cost over-runs due to inflationary pressure. A modular SCIF can be sold FFP on a US Gov contract and completed in half the time. This allows contract managers to award projects knowing that the mission will not be jeopardized due to additional expenses.

Design Firm Name : NA

Engineering Firm Name : Tavares and Associates

Green Building Description : Primary area for green advantages as follows: Mineral wool insulation, closed cell spray foam insulation, light gauge steel structure, and exterior siding which is a recycled product.

Installer Firm Name : AMS Inc.

Occupied Date : 4/25/2021

Owner Firm Name : USAF

Production Start Date : 1/2/2021

Project Location City : Classified

Project Location State Name : Nevada

Technical Innovation : This building meets / exceeds STC 50 and provides an RF barrier using metallic shielding. This shielding guards against unwanted wireless intrusion or reading of digital communications entering / existing the structure. Typically a SCIF is a concrete / steel structure built on site, however ASI worked with USAF designers to complete this project using a modular approach with specialized materials in a much faster time period than traditional construction. Additionally, extreme heat loads from data server within this structure required 30 tons of HVAC in a 600 sf area. Site installed industrial split-system hvac units were used to keep the servers and UPS units running at 68 deg F - 24/7. Insulation of the 6-inch walls is paramount to help maintain interior temp at 68 deg F; thus mineral wool and closed - cel urethane foam was used to maximize efficiency of the wall and roof assembly.

Total Square Feet : 1120