The MRS2–MRS3–MRS4 campus, one of Europe’s largest data centre complexes, is located in a densely populated urban area in Marseille. Faced with already high ambient noise levels and strict regulatory requirements for classified facilities (ICPE), our mission was to accurately assess the site’s acoustic impact and propose solutions to control its long-term effects.
There were many challenges: the technical equipment (generators, cooling units and dry coolers) generate significant noise emissions, the effects of which are cumulative between the three buildings. The variety of operating scenarios – river cooling, generator maintenance, full load or degraded mode operation – added further complexity to the analysis.
To address these challenges, we conducted a full acoustic study, including residual data analysis, detailed equipment review, and evaluation of all operational scenarios.
We developed a 3D acoustic model incorporating all sound sources on campus, updated to reflect any technical changes.
The results of our study enabled our clients to validate the campus’s ICPE acoustic compliance, even in the most demanding configurations. We identified the most critical situations and proposed targeted solutions, as well as optimising the layout of technical equipment.
This rigorous approach provided our client with a solid basis for decision-making to ensure controlled noise impact over the long term, while anticipating future developments at the site.
The study demonstrates our ability to manage complex acoustic projects in urban environments, combining technical expertise, advanced modelling and close collaboration with operators.
