Project Overview
The expansion of St. Louis Community College’s Wildwood Campus adds new instructional space to support increased enrollment and evolving academic programs. Located in Wildwood, Missouri, the new building is part of the college’s broader effort to modernize facilities and improve energy performance across its campuses.
This case study focuses on the mechanical systems installed for the new addition, including CleaverBrooks high-efficiency condensing boilers, Armstrong end-suction pumps, and Danfoss VLT HVAC variable frequency drives.
Project Challenges
1. Achieving Energy Efficiency:
Problem: The college needed to implement a heating system that met modern efficiency standards without redesigning the building’s mechanical layout or increasing complexity.
Solution: CleaverBrooks ClearFire-CE condensing boilers were selected for their compact footprint, low emissions, and thermal efficiency over 99%. This allowed SLCC Wildwood to meet its energy performance goals within the existing design constraints.
2. Reliable, Low-Maintenance Operation:
Problem: SLCC Wildwood required mechanical equipment that could run reliably for extended periods with minimal maintenance, as on-site facility staff is limited.
Solution: Armstrong 4030 base-mounted end-suction pumps were chosen for their proven reliability and ease of access for maintenance. Paired with Danfoss VLT HVAC variable frequency drives, the system maintains stable operation while maximizing efficiency under varying load conditions.
3. Tight Schedule Coordination:
Problem: With academic schedules set well in advance, the project team had limited time to complete mechanical installations without disrupting campus operations.
Solution: IMEG (Design Engineer) and Wiegmann (Mechanical Contractor) collaborated closely from design through commissioning. Their coordination ensured that equipment selections, piping layouts, and electrical connections were all aligned early—allowing for smooth execution and on-time delivery.
Project Impact and Community Benefits
The SLCC Wildwood expansion provides updated instructional space equipped with mechanical systems designed for energy efficiency and long-term performance. The use of high-efficiency boilers, durable pump systems, and VFDs allows the college to reduce utility costs and meet sustainability goals without adding operational complexity.
The project also supports SLCC Wildwood’s broader mission of workforce development by ensuring that campus infrastructure can accommodate increased enrollment and evolving program needs. Modernizing campus utilities plays a key role in maintaining a reliable, comfortable learning environment for students and faculty alike.
Conclusion
The mechanical scope of the SLCC Wildwood expansion demonstrates how targeted equipment selection and strong coordination between engineering and contracting teams can deliver lasting value. With CleaverBrooks boilers, Armstrong pumps, and Danfoss VFDs in place, the system is built for efficiency, reliability, and straightforward maintenance—supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term institutional goals.
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