How does under-floor air distribution impact static pressure and airflow within the cold aisle?
Under-floor air distribution, commonly used in data centers, increases static pressure under the raised floor and delivers cool air directly into the cold aisle, influencing airflow patterns. The under-floor plenum acts as a pressurized reservoir, increasing static pressure compared to the cold aisle itself. This pressure differential forces cool air up through perforated floor tiles or grates positioned within the cold aisle. The increased static pressure under the floor ensures a more consistent and directed airflow into the cold aisle, providing a reliable source of cool air for server intakes. This helps to maintain a stable and uniform temperature within the cold aisle. However, obstructions under the floor, such as cables or equipment, can impede airflow and reduce static pressure, leading to uneven cooling. Proper cable management and under-floor airflow management are essential to ensure that the intended static pressure and airflow patterns are achieved, maximizing cooling efficiency. By controlling the static pressure and directing airflow, under-floor air distribution helps to prevent hot spots and ensures that servers receive adequate cooling.