Coordinate the complete airflow path
An underfloor plenum may deliver conditioned air through openings or perforated tiles. The mechanical design, available underfloor space, obstructions and equipment layout all affect delivery.
Locate openings with the cooling design
Coordinate panel placement with equipment air intakes and the wider hot- and cold-air layout. Avoid treating the number of openings or an individual panel as a substitute for an airflow assessment.
Check access and structural needs
Panels, supports and openings must also meet the project's access, loading and safety requirements. Provide the intended panel layout and equipment loads when discussing a floor system.
Questions to bring to your project team
- What underfloor height is available after cables and services are installed?
- Where are cooling air intakes and planned equipment locations?
- What panel loads, opening layouts and maintenance access are required?
Further reading: U.S. Department of Energy: cooling efficiency opportunities for data centers. Review the full mechanical design with a qualified project team.