Caterpillar Distribution Center DC-2

The DC-2 distribution center in Clayton, Ohio provides a platform for Caterpillar to receive various parts from vendors throughout the region; assemble them using a system of cranes; paint/finish and package the parts; and either store or immediately ship them to the end user. Despite the adverse weather, construction on this project was completed in less than 10.5 months to meet the owner’s required occupancy date.

The warehouse area is ventilated in the summer using 30 roof-mounted exhaust fans interlocked with 56 wall-mounted louvers. Each louver includes an actuated damper and washable filter section to keep dust and other particulates from entering the space. In the winter, eight, 100% outdoor air units with modulating gas heat exchangers and variable-speed fans maintain comfortable temperatures while minimizing energy usage. Twelve high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans keep consistent temperature throughout the large space.

The five office areas interspersed around the building are conditioned using Aaon variable-speed rooftop units with digital scroll compressors for capacity modulation. Variable Volume and Temperature (VVT) air valves control zone temperatures. A Distech building management system was provided for owner control and monitoring of the office mechanical equipment.

The materials testing lab includes a Labconco VAV fume hood which is exhausted using a Greenheck Vector-H laboratory exhaust fan. A Phoenix Controls exhaust valve and sash monitoring sensor ensure that hood face velocity is constantly maintained regardless of sash position.