GFRP Applications in
Datacentres
Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP), or fiberglass, offers several benefits in datacenters due to its unique properties and suitability for specific applications.
These benefits make GFRP a suitable choice for various applications in datacenters, including structural supports, enclosures, cable trays, access flooring systems, and protective covers. The combination of non-conductivity, corrosion resistance, fire resistance, and lightweight properties helps enhance the reliability, safety, and efficiency of datacenter infrastructure.
GFRP can be engineered to provide excellent electromagnetic interference shielding properties. This is crucial in datacenters where sensitive electronic equipment and data transmission systems must be protected from external electromagnetic interference.
Fiberglass is highly resistant to corrosion, which is advantageous in environments where humidity and temperature variations can accelerate corrosion in metal structures. In datacenters, where maintaining optimal conditions for electronic equipment is essential, GFRP’s corrosion resistance ensures long-term reliability and reduces maintenance costs.
GFRP is significantly lighter than metals like steel or aluminium. This characteristic simplifies installation and reduces structural load, which is beneficial in datacenters where floor loading capacities and weight restrictions are considerations.
GFRP materials exhibit low thermal expansion and contraction rates, maintaining dimensional stability over a wide range of temperatures. This stability is beneficial in datacenters where temperature control is critical to ensure equipment performance and reliability.
GFRP can be manufactured using recycled materials and is recyclable at the end of its service life, aligning with sustainability goals in datacentre construction and operations.
Fiberglass is a non-conductive material, making it ideal for use in datacenters where electrical conductivity could pose risks to equipment and personnel safety. It helps prevent electrical shorts and minimises the need for insulation between electrical components.
GFRP can be manufactured to meet fire safety standards and regulations. It can provide fire resistance properties that are essential for protecting critical infrastructure and minimising fire risks in datacenter environments.
Fiberglass can be moulded into various shapes and forms, allowing for custom designs that meet specific requirements in datacenter construction. This flexibility enables the integration of GFRP panels, enclosures, and structural components tailored to optimise space and airflow management.
GFRP is durable and resistant to physical wear, impact, and environmental factors such as moisture and UV radiation. These properties contribute to the longevity of datacenter infrastructure and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Compared to traditional materials, GFRP requires minimal maintenance. It does not corrode, rust, or degrade over time, which lowers operational costs and downtime associated with maintenance activities in datacenters.