Raised computer room floors, also known as suspended flooring systems, have become increasingly popular in modern buildings, especially those with critical IT infrastructure. They offer several benefits, including improved energy efficiency, better air circulation, increased accessibility, and better acoustics.
If you are looking to upgrade your existing computer room or build a new one, you can consider raised computer room floors. In this blog, we will explore the importance and benefits of suspended flooring systems.
What are Raised Computer Room Floors?
A raised computer floor is a flooring system consisting of panels, pedestals, and stringers. The panels are placed on the pedestals, which are adjustable, and supported by stringers. The system creates a cavity or space between the floor and the subfloor, which can be utilized for various purposes.
Raised computer room floors have been in use since the 1960s when they were designed to provide underfloor air distribution systems (UFAD) in offices, data centers, and other commercial buildings. However, with the increasing demand for energy-efficient buildings, the use of raised computer room floors has become more widespread.
Benefits of Raised Computer Room Floors
Improved Energy Efficiency
One of the key benefits of raised computer room floors is their ability to improve energy efficiency in buildings. The cavity beneath the floor can be used as an air plenum to supply cooled air to the IT equipment. The cooled air is then drawn up into the racks, where it cools the equipment and absorbs the heat generated.
This method is more energy-efficient than traditional cooling systems, where the cool air is delivered from overhead or wall-mounted air handlers. Plenum cooling is also more adaptable and easier to maintain, as adjusting the plenum airflow does not require major modifications to the room's layout.
Better Air Circulation
Raised computer room floors can improve air circulation by creating a low-pressure area beneath the floor, which draws warm air away from the IT equipment. The cold air from the plenum rises through the equipment and takes advantage of the natural convection process to cool the equipment.
This method of cooling is more efficient and reliable than forced-air systems, which can create hot spots and cold spots in the room. Raised computer room floors also prevent the mixing of hot and cold air, reducing the risk of equipment failures due to overheating.
Increased Accessibility
Another advantage of raised computer room floors is the increased accessibility they offer. The cavity beneath the floor can be used to hide cables and wiring, making it easier to access equipment and perform maintenance.
The flooring system is designed to be modular and flexible, which means that it can be easily installed, reconfigured, or upgraded. This feature is essential for data centers, where the IT infrastructure is constantly evolving, and new equipment needs to be added or replaced.
Better Acoustics
Raised computer room floors can improve acoustics by reducing noise levels in the room. The panels and pedestals provide a barrier against sound, preventing it from traveling to other parts of the building.
This feature is especially important in buildings with open-plan offices or conference rooms, where noise levels can be a distraction. Raised computer room floors can help create a more comfortable working environment by reducing the impact of noise on employees and visitors.
Conclusion
Raised computer room floors play a crucial role in modern buildings, providing energy-efficient cooling, better air circulation, increased accessibility, and better acoustics. They are essential in data centers and other critical IT infrastructure facilities, where equipment uptime is crucial to operations.
If you are planning to upgrade your computer room or build a new one, consider using raised computer room floors. With their easy installation, flexibility, and energy-efficient cooling, they can help improve your building's overall performance and reduce your energy costs.