Westinghouse

Westinghouse eVinci Microreactor R&D/Manufacturing Facility: Looking to the Past to Build the Future

RPA Engineering led the renovation of an existing 82,000 sq ft. core & shell space, built in 1902, to transform the building into a modern, tech/flex office, R&D and manufacturing hub for Westinghouse. This revitalized facility will be used for developing Westinghouse’s eVinci™ Microreactor technology, a next-generation, micro-modular reactor for decentralized remote applications. eVinci™ is a transportable nuclear battery technology, which will provide clean energy for a variety of applications including off-grid communities, remote mining, defense facilities, and data centers.

This project involved a range of engineering disciplines, as well as architectural design, to ensure a safe and functional environment for the new occupants.

Key Designs
3-Floor Office and Roof Deck
The design seamlessly blends functionality and style, featuring private offices, dynamic conference and huddle rooms, open workstations, and multiple café and break areas. A standout feature is the expansive 4,000 sq. ft. rooftop deck, complete with live plants, seating options, perimeter lighting, and a motorized louvered awning for adaptable comfort.

State-of-the-art mechanical upgrades included all-new HVAC systems—fan-powered VAVs, VAVs, and mini-splits—integrated into the existing Building Management System. Plumbing was designed to support the new café spaces, while fire protection included a wet sprinkler system throughout, complemented by a Novec clean agent system in the main IT room. Fire alarm systems were also carefully planned for comprehensive safety. The electrical design encompassed new lighting, power distribution, and advanced door security access, with seamless coordination of AV/IT components.

Architecturally, the project involved code review, life safety planning, and thoughtful selection of walls, doors, and finishes, ensuring smooth collaboration with the furniture vendor. Structurally, the expansion of the 2nd and 3rd floors introduced two conference rooms overlooking the manufacturing area, and lintels and jambs to support walls above glass storefronts, reinforcing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

Manufacturing and R&D Areas
On the manufacturing side of the building, the office areas were reimagined to maximize functionality and collaboration. The design introduced expanded open workstation areas, additional meeting spaces, and a large, tiered-seating Design Review Auditorium. To enhance employee amenities, a fully equipped catering cafeteria was also incorporated.

The project included the installation of a new HVAC system, adjustments to the wet sprinkler layout for optimized safety, and upgraded lighting and power distribution. Additionally, AV/IT systems ensured that every space was equipped for modern workplace needs.

In the manufacturing areas, RPA provided design for:

• HVAC distribution, air curtains, and small process exhaust.
• High-bay and low-bay lighting throughout.
• Plumbing for sinks and safety showers/eye wash stations, specification of a tempered water system, and providing gas to equipment throughout.
• Power distribution via switchboards, transformers, panels, junction boxes and receptacles throughout.
• Hazardous chemical code evaluation of corrosive chemicals posing both physical and health hazards, design of an H-3 room for chemical storage, including exhaust, fire protection, explosion-proof lighting and spill containment.
• Machine Shop, housing CNCs, lathes, and other machining equipment.
• Structural evaluation of existing crane runway, structural reinforcement for large floor penetrations, equipment pads, slab foundation design to support heavy manufacturing equipment, sizing of steel beams to support large ceiling spans in the Auditorium.

Plant Utilities and Process Equipment Installation

• Consolidation of an equipment matrix with process utility requirements for over 50 pieces of manufacturing/R&D equipment.
• Plant compressed air system design including P&ID, sizing of compressor equipment and specification, and the compressed air loop layout.
• Process piping design between Owner-specified equipment for DI water, a cleaning system, and waste tank. Design included P&ID with a bill of materials, piping specifications and a stainless-steel DI hot water heater specification.
• Additional electrical service from a 2500kVA transformer to new 4000A switchgear, along with duct bank design and a new 500kW diesel generator and automatic transfer switch for a standby UPS supporting process R&D equipment.
• Specification of a 35,000 CFM Makeup Air Unit, distribution duct layout.
• Design of a high-temperature (>900 degF) process exhaust duct and routing.

Fast-Tracked Execution: Agility, Precision, and Seamless Coordination
RPA oversaw the subcontracted architectural design services while leading project management and construction administration from start to finish. Spanning approximately 20 months, construction progressed in tandem with ongoing design developments in various areas.

Throughout the two-year project, seamless coordination was key. Weekly communication with the Owner (Westinghouse), Owner’s Representative (JLL), Landlord (AM Group), and both the Core & Shell and Tenant Fit-Out contractors ensured that every phase aligned. This constant collaboration was crucial in synchronizing the completion of the core & shell work with the launch of the tenant fit-out, keeping the project moving efficiently and cohesively.

The successful completion of this fast-tracked project was a testament to RPA’s ability to manage complexity, adapt to evolving client needs, and maintain seamless coordination across multiple stakeholders. By balancing design progression with ongoing construction, making informed decisions about proprietary equipment and utilities, and ensuring constant communication, we delivered a high-performance workspace that met both functional and aesthetic goals. Our agility, responsiveness, and strategic problem-solving kept the project on track, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in fast-paced, high-demand environments.