GOVERNMENT / SUBCONTRACTOR

Clear LRDR CP#4 Maintenance Facility

Information about the project:

Slayden Plumbing and Heating Inc. delivered the complete mechanical systems for a 9,316-square-foot maintenance facility for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Clear Space Force Station (formerly Clear Air Force Station) in Alaska. This mission-critical structure serves as a multi-functional operations hub featuring modular shelf storage, a machine shop, heavy equipment repair areas, a water laboratory, staging zones, and essential support spaces—all designed to support ongoing operational needs in a remote, cold-weather environment.

To align with the base infrastructure and environmental conditions, the building’s heating system is integrated with the district low-temperature glycol heating loop. It uses a 130°F, non-toxic 50% Propylene Glycol solution to provide safe, reliable freeze protection throughout the year. The primary-secondary loop configuration, powered by building-mounted heating pumps, delivers heat efficiently across various zones. Vertical unit heaters serve the larger open areas such as the machine and repair shops, while more sensitive areas like the water laboratory and support rooms are maintained with baseboard heating systems for even and comfortable heat distribution.

Ventilation is managed through an air-to-air heat recovery ventilator that captures and reuses heat from exhaust air to minimize energy loss. Additionally, air curtains are installed above each overhead door to reduce cold air infiltration when the doors are open—enhancing thermal comfort and energy performance in high-traffic equipment zones.

Cooling for the facility is focused on critical systems, with Direct Expansion (DX) air conditioning units dedicated to maintaining climate control in the combined communications and electrical room. This protects sensitive electronic infrastructure from overheating, ensuring operational stability.

The plumbing systems are designed for durability and functionality in extreme Alaskan conditions. Roof and overflow drains manage stormwater, which is directed to a surface drainage swale. Domestic water is heated by an electric water heater, and distribution is supported by pumped hot water circulation. A recirculating main water line helps maintain temperature and freeze protection throughout the system. All wastewater is conveyed by gravity to an on-site septic system, supporting the facility’s self-contained operations.

This project reflects our Mechanical Contracting’s expertise in delivering reliable, climate-resilient mechanical solutions tailored to the unique demands of Arctic and subarctic environments. Every component was engineered for performance, ease of maintenance, and long-term operational success in remote federal installations.