Project Profile: Duke University Chesterfield Quantum Computing Research Lab Upfit

Quantum computing utilizes trapped ions held in electromagnetic fields.

By Dewberry September 3, 2024
The Duke Quantum Center is one of five new quantum research centers supported by a $115 million grant from the U.S. Dept. of Energy. The flagship Chesterfield facility with its unique precision HVAC systems demonstrates Duke's commitment to being a leader in quantum computing research. Photo courtesy of Tzu Chen Photography.

Engineering firm: Dewberry
2024 MEP Giants rank: 31
Project: Duke University Chesterfield Quantum Computing Research Lab Upfit
Location: Durham, North Carolina, United States
Building type: Research facility/laboratory
Project type: Existing building retrofit
Engineering services: Electrical, power; fire, life safety; HVAC, mechanical; plumbing, piping
Project timeline: June 2020 to August 2023
MEP/FP engineering budget: $4,073,422

Challenges

Quantum computing utilizes trapped ions held in electromagnetic fields. To maintain trapped ions, it requires precision temperature (+/- 0.5°F) and humidity (+/- 5% RH) control over a 48-hr time period with high filtration air and electromagnetic isolation. The recently installed HVAC systems, when the historic 1940s Chesterfield Tobacco manufacturing facility was converted to research lab space, were insufficient for the project requirements. The new lab is also located on the second floor of a fully occupied seven-story facility, also adding to the design challenges.

The Duke Quantum Center is one of five new quantum research centers supported by a $115 million grant from the U.S. Dept. of Energy. The flagship Chesterfield facility with its unique precision HVAC systems demonstrates Duke's commitment to being a leader in quantum computing research. Photo courtesy of Tzu Chen Photography.

The Duke Quantum Center is one of five new quantum research centers supported by a $115 million grant from the U.S. Dept. of Energy. The flagship Chesterfield facility with its unique precision HVAC systems demonstrates Duke’s commitment to being a leader in quantum computing research. Photo courtesy of Tzu Chen Photography.

Solutions

Dewberry developed a unique decoupled air supply system featuring a roof-mounted dehumidification unit that delivers neutral 36°F dew point air down through a former exhaust riser to the lab. Each lab has individual air handling units supporting three distinct supply zones, as well as dedicated booster fans with hot water coils to deliver precise temperature and humidity control to the research stacks.

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