Dissolvable Air Barrier (DAB) Panels

ESSENTIAL SECURITY CAGING

Eliminate Trip Hazards While Maintaining Thermal Containment

Why Choose Subzero Engineering’s Data Center Cages?

DAB Panels are designed to meet fire code requirements in jurisdictions where traditional drop-out panels have been restricted by Authorities Having Jurisdiction. The proprietary cellulose-based construction dissolves completely in under 30 seconds when exposed to sprinkler water. This eliminates the trip hazards and obstructions that have raised concerns in Virginia, Texas, and California.

As data center fire safety requirements evolve, maintaining thermal separation between hot and cold aisles while meeting code compliance has become increasingly complex. DAB Panels address these requirements by providing containment that works within existing fire suppression systems without creating the safety hazards associated with falling panels.

Thermal Efficiency

The containment system provides measurable improvements in data center cooling efficiency. PUE impact is limited to 0.30% compared to facilities without containment, significantly lower than permanent barrier systems. Cooling efficiency improvements of 2-5% have been measured in contained aisles. The panels maintain a 15-20°F temperature differential between hot and cold aisles and reduce bypass airflow by up to 40%.

Cost Analysis

For a 36,000 square foot facility, projected five-year savings total $617,000, or $17.14 per square foot. This includes 30-40% reductions in HVAC infrastructure requirements, 20-30% annual operating cost savings, and up to 50% reductions in fire suppression costs. Typical payback period is 24-36 months depending on facility size and local utility rates.

Key Features and Benefits

Fire Safety Compliance

The panels carry an ASTM E84 Class A fire rating with a flame spread index of 20 and smoke developed index of 0. The dissolvable design has been validated by independent fire protection engineers and is EPA Safe and CE Certified. The panels dissolve in under 30 seconds on water contact, eliminating trip hazards while maintaining sprinkler effectiveness.

• Thermal Performance:

  
  DAB Panels help optimize data center cooling efficiency by maintaining a 15-20°F temperature differential between hot and cold aisles. The containment system reduces hot air recirculation by up to 40% while adding only 0.30% to PUE compared to facilities without containment. This allows cooling equipment to operate more efficiently while meeting ASHRAE thermal guidelines.

• Installation Flexibility:

  
  The panels are manufactured in standard 24″ x 24″ sizes that integrate with existing data center infrastructure. Multiple installation methods are available including horizontal mounting across rack tops, vertical installation on T-bar systems, direct attachment to 80/20 framing, and threaded rod suspension. Custom sizing up to 54″ horizontal length is available to accommodate specific facility requirements.

• Cost Effectiveness:

  
  Implementing DAB Panels can reduce fire suppression infrastructure costs by up to 50% through improved sprinkler coverage requirements. The containment system also reduces HVAC capacity needs and provides a typical payback period of 24-36 months. Many installations qualify for utility energy rebate programs, further improving project economics.