Data Center Floor Plans

The elevation view evaluates the design of the data center floor plan in three tiers: the layout below the raised floor, the layout above the raised floor, and the layout above the dropped ceiling.

To establish a data center floor plan using the elevation view, designers begin by segmenting the access floor. At this level, it is important to include a sub-floor with adequate drainage to draw water from spills or leaks away from sensitive equipment. Power cabling and piping for cooling systems should also run through the sub-floor. Data cabling may be installed at the top of the raised floor. The design should also incorporate free space in the middle of the raised floor to allow for unobstructed air flow.

Above the raised floor, the equipment in the room must be laid out to enhance performance and support high availability. This is typically done following the ‘hot aisle/cold aisle’ approach, allowing for work flow and equipment demands as discussed above. It’s also important to note that the ceiling height in most rooms is typically a minimum of 9 feet, and the highest equipment placement should be no less than 18 inches below any sprinkler heads.

Next we come to the layout above the dropped ceiling. No plumbing or water pipes should pass over the room. Instead, it is common to pass these pipes at the perimeter to avoid potential equipment damage in the event of a water leak. An optional cooling approach presented by dropped ceilings is for the data center to utilize the ceiling plenum as a return air pathway depending on cooling requirements.

A broad spectrum of technical and strategic concerns must be taken into account when drafting a data center floor plan. The biggest factor to be considered when creating an effective data center floor plan is the power and cooling density to which the equipment is deployed. For best results, hire an expert consultant to ensure an efficient design that will lead to maximum availability and scalability.