Blanking Panels for Data Centre Server Racks
Improving Data Centre Rack Airflow Management
Blanking panels are essential for managing airflow in Data Centres. In the world of data centre temperature control, even small components can make a significant difference. Blanking panels, also called rack blanking plates, are a perfect example of this.
A key part of managing airflow in data centres is stopping cold air from mixing with hot air. Cold air cools the servers, while hot air comes from the IT equipment. Failure to do so can cause issues.
It can cause various problems, including hot spots, reduced cooling efficiency, and even potential equipment failure.
Blanking panels play a key role in solving this problem. Their main purpose is to cover unused space in the server rack. This prevents hot exhaust air from circulating to the front of the rack.
By sealing these openings, they function as a barrier and force the exhaust air to exit via the desired route. Additional air barriers can provide extra sealing to close any remaining gaps in the rack.
By implementing airflow management best practices, data centres can make significant improvements in efficiency and reliability.
Benefits include:
- Preventing Hot Spots and Latent Cooling Issues: Blanking plates prevent hot exhaust air from recirculating within the rack. Recirculating air can cause local temperature spikes. This can impact server performance. It can even lead to equipment failure.
Using panels ensures consistent and optimal temperatures throughout the rack. Additionally, they also help with cooling issues where systems waste energy trying to compensate for inefficient airflow. - Optimising Cooling Systems: Better airflow management leads to more efficient cooling systems. By keeping the hot exhaust air and cold conditioned air separate, it helps save energy and lower costs.
- Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Cooling can be up to 40% of a data centre’s energy consumption. By optimising cooling, it improves overall energy efficiency. This leads to lower operational expenses, better Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), a reduced carbon footprint, and a more sustainable data centre operation.
- Improved Equipment Lifespan and Reliability: Elevated temperatures can shorten the lifespan of IT equipment. It can also reduce its reliability and performance. Optimised airflow maintains optimal operating temperatures. Extending the life of hardware and reducing replacement costs, while improving overall system performance.
There are various blanking solutions available. EDP Europe specialise in tool-less blanking solutions.
- HotLok: Available in 1U or 2U sizes. HotLok blanking panels feature a distinctive design with cantilevered sealing vanes. These vanes create a tight seal against equipment, preventing air leakage. Integrated finger grips simplify installation and removal.
- EziBlank: EziBlank blanking sheets offer a flexible solution that can be easily resized. 6U sheets are marked at 1U intervals for simple bending and snapping. Built-in clips make installation quick and easy. The design enables rapid blanking of unused rack space.
- PlenaFill: For larger spaces, PlenaFill panels cover up to 27U. Panels are scored at 1U intervals. Simply tear off the require amount of blanking, and secure with rivets.
