South Dakota State University

Animal Science Complex Olson Biochemistry Lab | Brookings, SD

West Plains Engineering provided mechanical and electrical design services for the renovation of the Olson Biochemistry suite of laboratories into a new research group of laboratories.

The existing lab space was divided into a BSL-2 area and a research area, both of which have graduate student offices. Heating and cooling was provided by existing AHU’s and exhaust is core by existing exhaust fans. Lab spaces all have new Phoenix valves installed where necessary to accommodate bio-safety cabinets throughout the spaces.

Electrically, the university furnished a new 50KW generator and transfer switch for the project to install. The labs had a need for extra emergency power to support the -80 degree freezers and incubators. Surface mounted raceway with plenty of branch circuits were added for the large quantities of equipment that is used. Minimal relighting was done.