Buying Tips | Raised Access Floors

When selecting a Raised Access Floor system, it is crucial to remember that it serves as the foundation for your servers and other vital equipment. The right choice can substantially impact the overall performance and efficiency of your system.

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Key Considerations

• Understand the Concentrated Load Ratings - Different floor tiles come with various weight capacities. Knowing the necessary weight-bearing requirements is fundamental during the selection process. Most applications typically require a concentrated load rating ranging from # to #, with options between # to # available depending on specific needs.
• Finish & Materials - It is essential to select a tile that comes in industry-standard colors and patterns. This will facilitate easy replacements in high-traffic areas prone to wear and tear. In data centers, the surface must support static dissipation to prevent the accumulation of static electricity. Available materials differ in weight, including concrete-filled, wood core, and hollow steel panels, as well as stainless steel and aluminum for specialized applications.
• Understructure - A rigid grid support system is usually required when the finished floor height exceeds 12 inches. Screw-down stringer systems provide the best support against lateral movement and minimize panel shifting or floor failure when dealing with heavy loads.
• Cooling - Utilizing the area beneath the floor enhances your cooling efficiency. This can be optimized through proper arrangement of cabling stemming from CRAC and PDU/RPP units. For current high-density server racking, having around 65% open airflow panels maximizes cooling chances.
• Ramps/Railing Systems - These are essential for moving equipment onto raised access flooring when the height exceeds 6 inches. Ramps should comply with local and ADA regulations and typically have a slope of 1:12, requiring sloped handrails and a minimum height guard railing.
• Floor Cutouts - When employing a downflow AC system, use brushed grommet products to seal cable openings, thus preventing contamination. This approach minimizes cooling loss and helps maintain necessary static air pressure, ensuring optimal environment reliability and efficiency.

Key Terms

• Floor Panel
  The layer comprising the surface of a raised access floor system. Materials may include steel, steel with concrete filling, cast aluminum, or stainless steel.
• Concentrated Load Rating (Also known as STATIC LOAD)
  This rating specifies the force (in pounds) applied over a one square inch area.
• Bypass Airflow
  Conditioned air that fails to reach computer equipment. Bypass airflow often occurs via cable cut-outs and panel holes, or misplaced perforated tiles.
• Directional Airflow
  Airflow panels direct air toward server racks via perforated and cooling grates.
• Rolling Load
  Dynamic loads resulting from equipment movement on casters or wheels over the raised access floor system.

Considering the various benefits, steel flooring panels are an excellent option for enhanced durability and performance within your raised access flooring system.

To explore more about high-quality flooring options, don’t hesitate to check out metal flooring.