Today, any business requires computing power. Arranging data centers is inevitably connected with housing large quantities of high-precious networking equipment. When accommodating telecommunication hardware, each system administrator pays particular attention to the choice of server racks and cabinets.
This issue is of great importance since the hardware’s safety and flawless functioning directly depend on the type of server rack chosen.
Types of Server Storage Units
A server rack is a set of shelves and posts designed to store multiple computing devices. They distinguish between open-rack and enclosed models. Each of them has its peculiarities and benefits.
- Open-frame racks provide sufficient air circulation to cool equipment and easy access to all operating parts and their maintenance. Since they do not protect hardware from outside effects, such models are mostly chosen for location in closed premises (service rooms).
- Enclosed server racks provide enough security from unauthorized access and can be used in public places. However, due to side walls, airflow can’t pass through, which leads to improper natural ventilation, and users should resort to forced ventilation.
Some models are portable since they are equipped with rolling wheels to ensure easy transportation.
Server Rack Materials Used
Metal is the primary material used for server racks, selected to ensure strength, reliability, and stability for safely housing heavy and valuable equipment. However, it’s important to specify that server racks are typically made from specific types of metal, each chosen for unique properties:
- Steel: this is the most common material due to its high strength and durability against mechanical stress. Server racks are typically made from 1-2 mm sheet steel, providing strong support even for heavy equipment loads. Steel racks are often powder-coated to prevent corrosion.
- Aluminum: used in some lightweight or portable models, aluminum offers sufficient strength at a lighter weight compared to steel, making it ideal for mobile racks. It is also corrosion-resistant and has excellent heat conductivity.
These metals provide multiple benefits, making them essential for server rack construction:
- Strength and Load Capacity. Network equipment is heavy and requires sturdy construction. Steel and aluminum’s durability allows racks to safely accommodate these loads.
- Protection in Public Spaces. Enclosed models placed in accessible locations must shield hardware from external impacts. Steel’s thickness and resilience make it ideal for secure, impact-resistant racks.
- Stability During Transport. Since server racks are often moved or adjusted, metal construction prevents instability and minimizes the risk of equipment falling.
- Effective Cooling. Metal effectively dissipates heat. With proper ventilation, metal racks help maintain optimal operating temperatures, crucial for continuous data center functionality.
- Fire and Moisture Resistance. Metal’s natural fire and moisture resistance means equipment is protected from damage in cases of fire or water exposure, adding an extra layer of safety.
These advantages make metal the optimal choice for server racks, offering the structural integrity and protection needed for vital network equipment.
How Heavy are Server Racks?
The weight of an empty cabinet depends on its dimensions. Server racks differ in size; there are models of 4U–6U and up to 22U–42U, where U means 1.75 inches. Thus, the weight differs drastically. For example, a 19-inch 22U server cabinet with a perforated glass door weighs 50 kg. The biggest model weighs 100-110 kg.
To conclude, server cabinets are reliable storage for all standard computing devices. Furniture helps keep devices safe and sound and reliably protects them from most sorts of negative influences from the outside. That is why a quality metal is chosen as the material for this type of product.