Why Rack-Level Fire Protection Matters in Modular Data Centers
Modular data centers continue to grow in popularity due to their scalability, deployment speed, and predictable performance. These compact, high-density environments house critical IT infrastructure, and with that comes a concentration of electrical and thermal hazards. Because many fires originate inside server racks or equipment enclosures, traditional room-level suppression cannot always respond quickly enough to prevent damage.
This article explains how the Orbis® DLP and ILP clean agent systems provide reliable, rack-level fire suppression for modular data centers.
Common Fire Risks Inside Modular Server Cabinets
Modern modular data centers and edge data centers face unique fire risks:
- Electrical faults: short circuits, connector fatigue, or overheating components.
- Cabling issues: overloaded circuits or insulation breakdown.
- UPS or PDU failures: capacitor faults and power module overheating.
- Battery thermal events: especially in lithium-based systems.
High-density layouts accelerate heat accumulation and reduce detection time. Localized suppression addresses these risks more effectively than room flooding alone.
What Is Clean Agent Fire Suppression?
Clean agents such as FK-5-1-12 and HFC-227ea extinguish fire by removing heat and interrupting the combustion reaction—without harming electronic equipment.
Benefits for IT equipment include:
- Non-conductive and safe for energized gear
- Zero residue or cleanup
- Rapid fire suppression within seconds
- Minimal downtime compared to water or particulate agents
For modular data centers, clean agents provide an ideal balance of performance and equipment protection.
The Orbis Advantage: DLP and ILP Systems for Rack-Level Protection
Direct Low Pressure (DLP) Clean Agent System
- How it works:
Orbis’ DLP system features a heat-sensitive detection tube routed around key components inside each rack or cabinet. When exposed to fire or high heat, the tube ruptures at the hottest point, instantly releasing clean agent right where the fire starts. - Best for:
Individual server racks, battery enclosures, and confined spaces within modular data centers that require immediate, localized fire suppression. - Top benefits:
- No electrical power or wiring required
- Fast, automatic response at the source
- Minimal installation footprint
- Simple retrofit for existing or new server racks
Indirect Low Pressure (ILP) Clean Agent System
- How it works:
The ILP system uses strategically placed nozzles inside each rack, row, or modular enclosure. Activation is triggered by heat-sensitive tubing, smoke detectors, or gas detectors. Once a fire is detected, the clean agent is discharged through the nozzles, quickly flooding the protected space. - Best for:
Larger modular data center zones, multiple connected server racks, or areas requiring wide coverage and integration with fire alarm panels. - Top benefits:
- Multiple detection and activation options (heat tube, smoke, gas, manual)
- Uniform and controlled agent distribution
- One system can protect several racks or zones
- Seamless integration with monitoring and building management systems
Tubing Layout, Nozzle Placement, and Detection Options
Orbis DLP and ILP systems are engineered for ease of installation and scalability:
- DLP tubing can be routed around power supplies, battery modules, cable trays, and high-risk spots inside each rack
- ILP nozzles are positioned for maximum coverage across rows, aisles, or rack clusters
- Detection options (smoke, heat, gas sensors) allow for early warning and rapid response
- Clean agent selection and cylinder size can be tailored to each enclosure or cabinet size
Installation is quick and non-disruptive:
Orbis’ pre-engineered systems can be retrofitted into existing modular data centers or integrated during new construction, with minimal downtime and no need for large, complex piping.
Maintenance and System Reliability
- Low maintenance: No moving parts or complex electronics in DLP systems; ILP requires only periodic inspection of detectors and actuation
- Pressure gauges enable fast status checks at a glance
- Quick refilling and reset after discharge to minimize downtime
- Durable construction: All components are corrosion-resistant and built for data center temperature and humidity conditions
Choosing Between DLP and ILP for Modular Data Centers
- DLP Systems:
Ideal for rack-level or compartment-level fire protection, offering immediate and highly localized suppression for the most critical assets. - ILP Systems:
Best for protecting multiple racks, rows, or larger zones, and for projects that require integration with building fire alarm or management systems.
Many modular data centers benefit from a hybrid approach—DLP for high-risk or critical cabinets, ILP for broad-area coverage.
A Scalable Approach for Growing Data Environments
As organizations adopt modular data center solutions for speed, flexibility, and reliability, fire protection must keep pace with modern infrastructure. Orbis’ clean agent fire suppression systems—both DLP and ILP—deliver proven, code-compliant protection that’s easy to install, simple to maintain, and scalable for any data center configuration.
Distributors:
Offer your customers trusted, advanced fire safety solutions that protect their IT investments and ensure business continuity.
End Users:
Rely on Orbis systems to safeguard your modular racks, maintain uptime, and meet industry fire safety requirements.
Ready to protect your modular data center with clean agent fire suppression?
Contact Orbis Fire Suppression for a tailored solution or to connect with a distributor near you.
