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ESSENTIAL Containment

Dissolvable Air Barrier (DAB) Panels

Fire-safe aisle containment that dissolves completely when sprinklers activate


ESSENTIAL DISSOLVABLE AIR BARRIER PANELS

Eliminate Trip Hazards While Maintaining Thermal Containment

Why Choose Subzero Engineering’s Dissolvable Air Barrier Panels?

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, California, and other states.

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.

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 and cooling equipment to operate more efficiently while still maintaining ITE 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 for both horizonal and vertical containment systems.
  • Cost Effectiveness:


    Implementing DAB Panels can reduce fire suppression infrastructure costs through improved sprinkler coverage requirements. Many installations qualify for utility energy rebate programs, further improving project economics and project ROI.
Technical Specifications

DAB Panel Specifications

MaterialProprietary fire-retardant cellulose-based construction
Standard Size24″ x 24″
Panel Thickness0.0175″
Panel Weight0.75 lbs per panel
Frame Dimensions1.375″ wide x 0.75″ tall
Fire RatingASTM E84 Class A (Flame Spread Index 20, Smoke Developed Index 0)
Dissolution TimeLess than 30 seconds on water contact
Light TransmissionSemi-translucent, allows overhead lighting through
Storage Conditions50-80ºF temperature, less than 80% relative humidity
CertificationsEPA Safe, CE Certified, UL Tested
Technical Specifications

Air Flow Flap (AFF) Specifications

Air Flow Flaps are required for cold aisle installations, with one flap recommend every 6-8 feet to maintain proper airflow during fire events (may also be required for hot aisle depending on layout of sprinkler heads)

Dimensions24″ length x 5″ width x 0.5″ height
ConstructionAluminum frame
Fuse Threaded Plug165ºF brass alloy thermal releasing plug
OperationGravity-operated flap with thermal release mechanism
LED OptionOptional 24V LED strip lighting (5W, 6500K white, 1050 L/m2)
LED CoverageUp to 10 panels can be powered per 24V power supply

Does your project demand more?

Customize Any Solution with Our Elite Series Products and Upgrades

Tailor fit your containment solutions with the Elite Series, featuring top-of-the-line materials, a sleek look and feel, dependable design, and a limited lifetime warranty. The Elite Series enables us to offer customized full-scale turn-key solutions for our customers in a bundled service.

  • ENGINEERED CUSTOMIZATIONS
    All of our Elite products can be highly customized to meet specific requirements
  • UPGRADED MATERIALS & FUNCTIONALITY
    Slim and refined Elite profiles, upgraded finishes and soft closing details
  • EXTENDED LIFETIME WARRANTY
    Gain peace of mind with our extended lifetime warranty for all Elite Series products
  • WHITE-GLOVE ON-SITE SUPPORT
    We provide white-glove installation service and custom on-site fabrication in your critical data center environment