Materials for Data Center Aisle Containment

Polycarbonate twinwall is a superior material for data containment systems due to its outstanding impact resistance and excellent thermal properties. The hollow fluted channels in twinwall trap air, enhancing its insulation strength and preventing the transfer of heat between hot and cold aisles. Containment systems utilizing twinwall reduce their reliance on HVAC systems due to more efficient cooling and can save an estimated 20% to 25% in energy usage according to the Department of Energy.

Twinwall's light transparency, UV protection, and light diffusion allow light in without creating "hot spots" of uneven temperatures within the system. Twinwall's longevity, impact resistance, and Class A fire rating, make it a durable, safe, and flexible choice for data center construction. Twinwall panels can be easily installed or removed to allow data centers to scale up or down as necessary.

• [Twinwall Installation Guide PDF]

In data containment systems, twinwall provides an insulating barrier between hot and cold aisles. It has insulating properties that prevent heat transfer between the two and helps regulate temperatures within the containment system.

HAC and CAC stand for Hot Aisle Containment and Cold Aisle Containment, respectively. Hot aisle containment arranges server racks to face the same side, directing hot air exhausts into an enclosed aisle where it is then directed towards the ceiling for recirculation or removal by cooling systems. In cold aisle containment, server racks are aligned so that cold air intakes face the same side, ensuring servers receive a uniform supply of cool air. Polycarbonate twinwall panels act as separators between the two aisles, providing insulation and preventing heat transfer.

Hot and cold aisles in data centers are integral for efficient cooling and reduced energy usage. Hot aisles collect and channel hot air exhausts from servers, directing them away for cooling, while cold aisles supply servers with cool air. This separation optimizes airflow, enhances cooling effectiveness, and ensures consistent temperature regulation, allowing for less HVAC system usage. The Department of Energy estimates that data centers using hot and cold aisles may see a savings of an estimated 20% to 25% in energy usage.