Fungible Engineering: The Future of Modular Design in Data Centers

In an era where speed, flexibility, and efficiency dictate the success of technological infrastructure, the concept of fungibility is emerging as a game-changer in structural engineering. Much like how the NFT craze once illustrated the demand for adaptability in digital assets, structural engineers today are embracing the idea of designing modular, interchangeable structures that cater to evolving industry needs.

The rapid development of technology places immense pressure on data center infrastructure to not only support critical operations but also accommodate swift deployment. Supply chain disruptions often delay the procurement of essential equipment, extending project timelines by months or even years. To mitigate this, engineers are shifting towards fungible design—creating standardized, adaptable structures that can be repurposed across multiple geographies without major redesigns.

One of the fundamental design decisions in data center construction is selecting the appropriate Risk Category as per the International Building Code (IBC). While originally focused on life safety, modern applications recognize the substantial financial risks associated with data center failures, leading some owners to opt for Risk Category IV for enhanced protection.

Structural enhancements, such as increased stiffness and reinforcement, result in cost premiums ranging from 6% to 16%. Additionally, ASCE 7-22 introduces tornado load requirements for Risk Category III buildings in prone regions, further influencing design decisions.

Seismic Design Categories (SDC) also play a crucial role in ensuring resilience. Engineers utilize geotechnical assessments to classify sites and determine seismic bracing needs. For example, a structure designed with SDS=0.2 and SD1=0.13 can cover approximately 82% of the data center market while maintaining cost efficiency. However, achieving true fungibility requires a balance—over-engineering for extreme conditions increases costs, while under-designing limits adaptability.

To optimize fungibility, engineers must prioritize modular solutions that accommodate various environmental and regulatory constraints. Strategies include:

For vendors, adopting fungible designs enhances product versatility, minimizes inventory costs, and accelerates project timelines. By analyzing key project criteria—seismicity, climate factors, and regulatory requirements—engineers can develop structures that seamlessly integrate into various environments while ensuring resilience and cost-effectiveness.

Fungibility in structural design is more than a trend; it is an essential evolution in engineering that ensures adaptability, cost efficiency, and future-proofing of critical infrastructure. Whether optimizing for seismic activity or enhancing modularity for rapid deployment, the ability to repurpose and standardize structural components is redefining the way data centers are built.