Longevity likely isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for most people when they think about modular infrastructure. Modular construction, also known as volumetric construction, is most known for its speed, scalability and flexibility. However, modular data centers are proving that these advantages do not come at the expense of the final product’s quality and longevity.
Constructed with industrial-grade materials and engineered for long-term adaptability, modular data centers may be the durable solution your organization can count on to not only deliver quick time to value but also continue performing for decades.
Built for Endurance and Longevity
The modular data center (MDC) market is booming, with an expected compound annual growth rate of 17.93 percent from 2024-2032. The rising popularity of MDCs is attributed to several key factors, including their flexibility, scalability, cost efficiency and rapid deployment time. Although those are all valuable benefits, they may fall flat in the long run if an MDC only provides a short-term solution.
So, how long does a modular data center last? To answer this question, we must consider a variety of components that all come with varying lifespans. Data centers consist of the outer shell or building, along with IT equipment, power equipment, cooling equipment and more. Data center servers are typically replaced every 2-5 years, but the surrounding facility should be built to last as long as possible. Overall, MDCs easily match the longevity of stick-built data center facilities.
Modern MDCs come in many varieties, from micro data centers to more expansive assemblies and skidded units. Whatever the form, all MDCs from highly respected providers like PCX are built to last. You can count on these products to feature:
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Industrial-grade materials: Whether as a platform and frame around the modular unit or a fully enclosed assembly, high-quality steel welded by experienced professionals provides a strong foundation. Other materials used to construct MDCs are chosen for their performance in addition to factors such as cost, weight and availability.
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Factory-built precision: Modules are constructed in a controlled environment where tighter tolerances and consistent quality characterize every build. The consistency in environment, personnel and processes reduces the risk of variability and construction flaws compared to when centers are assembled in the field.
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Sophisticated support infrastructure: Modular data centers can feature the latest and greatest when it comes to weatherproofing, corrosion protection, security features and advanced cooling systems to protect hardware performance. PCX works with customers to incorporate the specific technologies or components they need in their data center design.
Flexible and Future-Proof by Design
Modular data centers may be built to last, but that doesn’t mean they’re intended to remain untouched for decades. As an organization’s needs fluctuate and as new technology becomes available, data centers will inevitably need to flex. Fortunately, MDC infrastructure is designed to evolve alongside your IT strategy.
The interconnected, plug-and-play nature of MDCs makes it easy to swap out, eliminate, upgrade and add units with minimal disruptions to your operations. With a traditional data center, you would need to break ground on a new construction project or undertake a major renovation to make substantial changes, but modular data centers give you the flexibility to scale seamlessly when it makes sense.
Considering the Long-Term Investment of MDCs
When looking at the long-term value of a modular data center, a few factors are worth considering:
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Cost: The total cost of ownership for modular data centers is ultimately lower than traditional builds. Minimized waste during the construction process and efficient operations through rightsized capacity make MDCs a cost-effective (and environmentally sustainable) solution.
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Maintenance: Maintenance procedures are a necessary aspect of any data center’s ongoing operation. Modular data centers are created with well-thought-out designs and standardized components that allow for straightforward maintenance, replacements and upgrades over time.
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Scalability: As discussed in the previous section, modular data centers are a superior solution when it comes to scalability. Rather than trying to anticipate future needs, you can build out the capacity you need right now and flex as needed with additional units that are built and delivered expediently.
Modular Data Centers: A Solution for Today, Tomorrow and Beyond
Modularity may, in some contexts, be associated with lower quality or less focus on longevity. However, when it comes to data centers, modular construction can actually enhance the final product’s staying power. Today’s modular data centers aren’t built as temporary solutions—they’re designed to be just as durable and functional as permanent facilities, but with added benefits that make it easy to scale or upgrade when the time comes.
For organizations planning with the next 10–20 years in mind, modular offers flexibility and resilience that lasts.
Learn more about all-in-one MDCs by exploring our interactive infographic, “Anatomy of a Modular Data Center.”
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