Data center furniture is produced to house IT equipment and accompanying accessories. These include both heavy servers and hardware and lightweight accessories, such as cords and plastic panels. Yet, note that the maximum load capacity is limited for every furniture piece. Thus, rack load capacity is the maximum weight a cabinet or rack can hold for a long time.
A modern full-fledged server cabinet can accommodate up to 72 blade servers with all the required supporting infrastructure (active hardware, accessories, etc.). The weight of such systems can reach up to 1.800 pounds.
The industry has load ratings, according to which furniture pieces with higher indicators can support heavier equipment and accommodate more devices. Load ratings are used to guarantee rack stability and structural integrity, preventing hardware from collapsing and damage.
The Importance of Selecting Suitable Rack Load Capacity
The main reason to pay attention to load ratings is to guarantee hardware safety during storage in cabinets. Thus, security under various conditions is the primary concern for administrators when choosing appropriate furniture for their IT systems.
Considering the concept of load ratings when selecting appropriate server furniture will help avoid mistakes, damage, and extra expenses in the future. The choice of a proper cabinet in accordance with the needed load capacity will maintain the structural integrity of the rack and prevent devices from collapsing.
An understanding of load capacity will simplify the process of planning the future expansion of IT infrastructure and aid in developing a well-functioning system in compliance with regulations.
Types of Load Capacity: Dynamic VS Static
When considering the issue of load capacity, technicians distinguish between two types of measures. Each of them approaches different aspects of describing weight-bearing capabilities. Below, let’s consider each type in more detail.
Static Load Capacity
This type of load determines the maximum weight a server cabinet can carry when being in a stationary position, i.e. equipment doesn’t move. This indicator takes into account the weight of all the parts, including hardware, accessories, and wires. This type of load is usually higher than dynamic.
Dynamic Load Capacity
Meanwhile, this type is opposed to static load capacity. Note that most server cabinets have casters and handles for easy and quick relocation. This indicator shows the maximum weight a dynamic server rack can hold when being in movement, i.e. when it is removed or replaced. This indicator is usually lower in comparison with a static one since stress during vibration and motion is added.
Note that wheels come as a weak point of server cabinet construction since their weight-bearing capabilities are lower, and if poor-quality casters are used, they can break under the weight. This is why it is important to choose certified models with high-quality durable weight-resistant wheels.
Consequences of Overloading Server Cabinets
An incorrect choice of the required rack load capacity results in many problems, such as overloading and, consequently, equipment and rack body damage. The most evident and common cases include:
Decrease in performance. When too many workloads are entrusted to servers, they won’t be able to process system demands effectively. This malfunction results in increased latency, slower response time, and reduced system performance.
Security. Overloading cabinets with hardware can lead to the inability to perform security measures thoroughly. Some applications can fail to monitor and ensure protection. This malfunction makes the system prone to unauthorized access attempts or cyberattacks.
A high risk of equipment failure. Note that network hardware requires sufficient cooling. Fans and other ventilation devices force the airflow to circulate through operating devices and exchange heat. Overloading the cabinet with devices and their close placement lead to hardened air circulation and poor equipment cooling. These result in hardware overheating.
Scalability. In most cases, technicians prefer to buy a bigger cabinet to foresee adding new devices in the future when more capabilities will be needed from the system. If the rack is overloaded from the very moment of system arrangement, you won’t have the chance to scale it in the future.
Thus, it is important to calculate the optimal load capacity thoroughly. When determining the needed rack size and its capacity, take into account not only the actual number of devices and their weight but also their arrangement in the cabinet, free space, and security measures.
To achieve the most durable rack performance, users should adhere to guidelines provided by furniture manufacturers. By sticking to effective strategies for equipment allocation, technicians will design a more durable and smoothly functioning system.
Overloading cabinets with hardware affects not only devices but also the rack body. Placing more equipment that the rack can support has a negative impact on the construction causing its damage (cracking, raking, etc.).
The last thing to consider is the type of cabinets. Note that there are floor-standing and wall-installed models. Depending on the mounting type, models are designed to carry different weights. Thus, study manuals thoroughly to make sure that a particular product can accommodate your system.
It is necessary to pay attention to this question at the stage of planning network system arrangement since it influences too many parameters. When selecting a dynamic network rack, make sure to consider the maximum permissible weight of the construction. Next, make 3D visualization to develop the best layout of your system, ensure sufficient airflow, and prevent tipping off. The preparatory stage is the main one since it allows for eliminating multiple mistakes. If you do not pay due attention to load capacity and hardware allocation, you may face many problems in the future.
Server system arrangement is a responsible task. Furniture plays a significant role here since hardware is housed there. Rack load capacity is an important concept that helps prevent equipment damage and malfunction. Thus, system administrators should not neglect it when choosing an appropriate size. Remember that it is advisable to buy a bigger model with extra capacity.