Cold aisle containment can hinder traditional fire detection due to high airflow and physical barriers. Aspirating Smoke Detection (ASD) systems, such as VESDA, are recommended because they continuously sample air from the cold aisle, ceiling returns, and under-floor plenums, detecting incipient smoke far earlier than conventional point detectors . Point detectors may still be used for zoning and cross-verification, but their placement must account for airflow patterns and maintenance access . Ceiling sampling points are also advised for detecting fires outside IT cabinets .
For suppression, clean agent systems (halocarbon or inert gas) are commonly used in cold aisles to minimize damage to sensitive IT equipment . Nozzle placement is critical: the optimal location is typically in the center of the longest wall of the cold aisle, with at least 1.2 meters clearance on all sides to ensure uniform agent distribution . Pre-action sprinkler systems, particularly double-interlock configurations, are standard in critical spaces, activating only when both detection and sprinkler heads are triggered .
Cold aisle containment improves cooling efficiency but can interfere with fire protection. Barriers may obstruct suppression agent flow and impede smoke detection . Designers should treat contained aisles as enclosures, similar to floor or ceiling voids, ensuring that nozzles and detectors achieve a homogeneous mixture of agent and effective smoke sampling throughout the aisle . Containment barriers should be noncombustible, such as metal or rigid Class A plastics, to reduce fire load and smoke generation .
Fire protection in cold aisles requires a holistic approach that integrates early detection, strategically placed suppression nozzles, and careful consideration of containment barriers. By combining aspirating smoke detection, clean agent suppression, and adherence to standards, data centers can achieve rapid response, minimize equipment damage, and maintain operational continuity.
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Home / Articles / Industry Guide / Evacuation Plans for Data Centers: Clean Agent Systems, Hot Aisles and Limited
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