Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on Air Containment and Cooling Curtains for Data Centers
The growing data center sector requires several different products to assist with vital cooling needs, including data center cooling curtains. Data center air containment curtains play a major role in helping facilitate cooling to maintain data center equipment.
As leaders in plastic film distribution, Adams Plastics supplies clear PVC vinyl and other plastic materials to manufacturers that produce industrial vinyl curtains. Learn how containment curtains work, how they compare to other containment methods, and what to consider when choosing a curtain material.
Why Cooling is Important for Data Center Equipment
Within any data center, there is a significant amount of heat generated by the numerous servers and other equipment. This heat needs to be constantly managed to prevent damage to the sensitive electronics and ensure efficient operation.
In fact, cooling is one of the most critical factors in maintaining the functionality and longevity of a data center. Without proper cooling, the internal temperature of a data center can quickly reach dangerous levels, causing equipment to overheat and malfunction.
Data centers typically cool equipment with a mix of methods: air conditioning units, fans, and liquid cooling handle most of the heat removal, while air containment curtains work alongside them. Curtains physically separate hot exhaust air from cold intake air, keeping mechanical systems from fighting recirculated heat. This approach has become a common part of data center design, whether in new builds or retrofits.
Hot Aisle vs. Cold Aisle Containment
Server racks in a data center are typically arranged in alternating rows, with equipment facing each other so that cool air intakes line up on one side and hot air exhausts line up on the other. This creates a natural pattern of alternating hot and cold aisles. Containment curtains are used to seal off one of these aisle types from the rest of the room, and facilities generally choose between two approaches.
Hot Aisle Containment
Hot aisle containment encloses the aisle where equipment exhausts hot air. The rest of the room stays at the cooler ambient temperature, and the enclosed hot aisle is ducted or otherwise routed back to the cooling system. This approach tends to suit facilities where most of the room needs to remain at a comfortable working temperature for staff and other equipment.
Cold Aisle Containment
Cold aisle containment takes the opposite approach: the aisle receiving cooled air from the HVAC system is enclosed instead, concentrating the cold supply where it’s needed most and letting excess heat dissipate into the broader room. This method is often simpler to retrofit into an existing space, since it doesn’t require the same level of ducting back to central cooling infrastructure.
The best approach for a facility usually comes down to existing room layout, and how easily the space can be sealed given existing racks and overhead infrastructure. In both cases, containment curtains serve as the physical barrier along the aisle, forming the wall that keeps hot and cold air from mixing.
Why Plastic Film for Data Center Aisle Containment Curtains?
Temperature Control: Plastic data center containment curtains are designed to control temperature and maintain a stable environment within the data center. They act as a barrier between hot and cold zones, allowing for efficient cooling of equipment.
Cost-Effective: Using data center curtain materials can be a cost-effective solution compared to traditional methods such as building walls or installing permanent partitions. These curtains are easily installed and can be adjusted or moved as needed, making them a flexible and economical option.
Customizable: Data center curtain materials come in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials, allowing for customization based on the specific needs of each data center. This flexibility makes it easy to create separate areas within the data center for different temperature requirements.
Improved Airflow: By creating designated zones with data center curtains, airflow can be controlled and directed more efficiently. This helps to prevent hot spots and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the data center.
Easy Maintenance: Data center curtain materials are designed for easy maintenance and cleaning. They can be quickly removed for cleaning or repairs without disrupting the rest of the data center operations.
Plastic Material Considerations for Data Center Curtains
Once a facility decides on curtain containment, the material choice matters more than it might seem. A few properties come up most often in data center applications specifically:
Fire rating: Many facilities are subject to flame spread requirements under building or fire code, so curtain material intended for a server room typically needs a fire-retardant rating rather than a standard formulation.
Anti-static properties: Given the proximity to sensitive electronics, static discharge is a real concern in a server environment in a way it isn’t for most other curtain applications. An anti-static formulation reduces that risk.
Optical clarity: Depending on how the space is used, staff may need to visually monitor equipment or aisle conditions through the curtain without opening it, which makes clarity and light transmission relevant to the material choice.
Note that PVC materials are not universally accepted for hot/cold aisle containment. Some insurers and industry guidelines exclude PVC materials in certain data center environments, so confirming acceptability with your facility’s insurer and local code authority before specifying a material is key, and the sole responsibility of the user.
Contact Us to Source Plastic Film for Air Containment Curtains
If you’re evaluating a containment strategy for a specific facility, our data center curtain manufacturing page has more detail on the materials we supply. As leaders in plastic film distribution, Adams Plastics supplies clear PVC vinyl and other plastic materials used in industrial clear plastic curtains, including those manufactured for data center air containment. We supply specialized data center cooling curtain materials to meet those needs.
Contact us today to learn more about these products or arrange a purchase!
* Note: Adams Plastics supplies component film materials for use by fabricators and manufacturers; we do not manufacture or install finished data center containment curtains. The fabricator and end user are responsible for confirming that any finished product meets project specifications, applicable building and fire codes, insurer requirements, and approval by the authority having jurisdiction.
Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on Adams Plastics Featured in Recycling Today
Our Recycling Division Makes the Headlines
Adams Plastics was recently featured in Recycling Today’s article titled ‘Ditching the Metals’. The article discusses our newly added which aids in the removal of metals from the regrind.
Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on Why Use PVC Film for Industrial Applications?
PVC film—also referred to as vinyl film—is a thin thermoplastic film available in a variety of forms and finishes. Depending on the requirements and restrictions of the intended application, it can demonstrate rigidity or flexibility and feature a clear, colored, translucent, opaque, matte, or glossy finish. Due to its versatile nature, the material finds use across a wide range of industrial applications, ranging from shower curtains to pharmaceutical packaging. Common variations include clear PVC film, plastic vinyl, and clear PVC vinyl used in both decorative and functional applications.
Why is PVC Frequently Used?
Compared to other thermoplastic film materials, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film offers several advantages, including:
Durability. PVC is highly durable, exhibiting exceptional resistance to damage due to harsh environmental conditions such as corrosive chemicals, abrasion, shock, and impact. These properties make it suitable for use in medium to long term applications involving exposure to external environments.
Operational and environmental safety. PVC is non-toxic and thoroughly tested for environmental effects. It meets a variety of domestic and international health and safety standards, including those outlined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and International Safety Standards (ISS).
Fire resistance. Due to its high chlorine content, PVC is highly resistant to fire. It does not ignite easily or produce a great deal of heat when burned. However, as it can emit harmful chemicals when melted or burned, those handling the material in operations involving open flames or high temperatures should take the proper precautions to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. It is also self-extinguishing.
Non-conductivity. PVC does not conduct electricity, which makes it suitable for use as an insulator in industrial and mechanical components and buildings.
Cost-effectiveness. Despite its numerous advantages, PVC is inexpensive to manufacture and easy to manipulate into desired shapes and sizes. These qualities make it a cost-effective material option for industrial applications.
Versatility. The physical properties of PVC allow it to accommodate a wide range of applications, as outlined below. Its adaptability also makes it a popular transparent PVC material in applications requiring visibility or light transmission.
What is PVC Film Used For?
PVC film is a form of PVC used widely in industrial applications, such as:
Waterproof Enclosures and Products
The exceptional durability and water resistance of PVC film make it an excellent material for outdoor and indoor waterproof enclosures and products, such as canopies, tents, and shower curtains.
Furniture and Supply Covers
PVC film is an excellent product for the fabrication of furniture covers and protective products such as food delivery bags and imitation leather. Covers and products made with PVC film are weatherproof, easy to maintain, and can be laminated for additional protection. Clear PVC film sheets are often used in these applications for added transparency and visual appeal.
Windows and Siding
PVC’s insulating and heat resistant properties, coupled with its durability, make PVC film an ideal option for use in window covers and siding.
Packaging Materials
Industry professionals use both rigid and flexible PVC film to manufacture packaging materials. For example, flexible film can be used to create tamper-resistant seals for products such as consumer goods, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals, while rigid film is suitable for packaging materials such as clamshells. The use of clear PVC film in packaging provides product visibility while maintaining a protective barrier.
FAQs
Can PVC film be heat-sealed? Yes, plastic vinyl can be heat-sealed for packaging, covers, and more.
Is PVC safe for food contact? Certain clear PVC film sheets meet FDA standards and are used in food-safe applications.
What’s the lead time for custom orders? Lead times vary based on order size and custom requirements—please contact us for details.
Can you print logos or designs? Yes, clear PVC vinyl and transparent PVC material can be printed with custom graphics, branding, or instructions.
Custom PVC Plastics From Adams Plastics
At Adams Plastics, we offer high-quality converting services to produce custom products from plastic materials such as PVC film. Our converting capabilities include laminating, slitting, sheeting, and printing. For more information on our products and services, contact us today. If you need assistance with your next plastic product project, reach out to our team to request a quote or sample.
Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on How Plastics Made Their Way into the NFL
Plastics find application in virtually every industry, ranging from aerospace and agriculture to retail and recreation. Industry professionals employ plastic materials, such as sheeting or film, in the manufacture of a variety of products for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
At Adams Plastics, we specialize in vinyl film, laminates, and synthetic leather. With these quality materials, our customers create custom decals, labels, and graphic products for use in a diverse set of industries, including the professional sports industry.
A History of the Modern Football Helmet
Initially, football players did not use any protective headgear during games. It wasn’t until the turn of the twentieth century that they began wearing leather caps to mitigate the risk of severe injury. Over time, manufacturers started developing helmets that offered both protection and comfort. Through numerous design iterations, the modern football helmet was born—a device carefully designed and manufactured to keep players safe from serious head and face injuries such as concussions.
In contrast to the leather used in early protective headgear, plastic serves as the primary material used in the construction of these more modern helmets. In addition to providing greater durability and shock and impact absorption, the material also provides a smooth surface for teams to personalize the helmets with custom decals.
Sports leagues, such as the NFL, use customized decorative decals to add team logos and other identification information to make individual members more recognizable and marketable. Compared to stickers, the decals are specially designed to establish a seamless finish and survive wear and tear throughout multiple games.
How to Apply Vinyl Decals
While vinyl helmet decals are created to withstand use across multiple games, optimizing their longevity necessitates proper application. When applying decals to a helmet, there are few considerations to keep in mind to ensure the establishment of a long-lasting hold, such as:
Using a high-quality decal. Teams should order decals from a reputable decal supplier—one that makes thick decals that offer greater resistance to ripping, tearing, wrinkling, and fading.
Cleaning the application surface. Before applying a decal to a helmet, make sure the entire surface is clean and dry. Compounds such as dirt and water create a thin film between the adhesive layer and the helmet’s surface that prevents an adhesive bond from forming properly.
Applying polishing wax after decal application. Ensure that all decals are added to a helmet before subjecting it to polishing. Similar to dirt and water, polishing wax can decrease the effectiveness of a decal’s adhesive.
Vinyl Decal Design Options
In addition to featuring a custom graphic design, vinyl decals can vary in regard to finish. Some of the finish options available include:
Chrome finishes with a metallic sheen
Matte finishes with a non-shiny surface
Metallic flake finishes for a glittery look that intermittently captures light
These customization choices, among others, allow teams to achieve a look that matches the aesthetic of their marketing or branding.
At Adams Plastics, we proudly supply high-quality materials to customers who produce custom helmet decals, including those used by NFL teams. The decals featuring our materials are completely personalized and built to showcase striking details and colors that make every player identifiable even from the top of the stadium seats.
Get in Touch With the Plastic Suppliers at Adams Today
Adams Plastics provides high-quality vinyl rolls that can be used in a wide range of applications, such as on football helmets. In addition to finding use in decals, they are also commonly used in labels, stickup pockets, and other graphic product applications that use converted plastics. While we specialize in vinyl, we can supply other materials upon customer request, such as PVC film, laminate, and imitation leather.
For more information on our products and services, contact us today. To bring NFL-quality branding to your local team, reach out to our team to request your PVC quote or sample.
Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on Vinyl Companies Help Fight The Pandemic
Small businesses in Texas and Utah step up to provide much needed help during the COVID-19 outbreak. Learn more by clicking on the articles below to see how these vinyl companies shifted their focus to produce masks and helmet-style ventilation devices.
Posted by Adams Plastic | Comments Off on Benefits Of Antimicrobial Copper
Copper and its alloys are naturally antimicrobial—they destroy germs without the use of bleach or other chemicals, a quality that has been recognized in some form for thousands of years. For example, ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Aztecs used copper to treat wounds and sterilize water.
Today, antimicrobial copper can be used on high-touch surfaces to help prevent the spread of germs. It begins to kill bacteria such as E. Coli and superbugs like MRSA within minutes, even though these microbes can live on other hard surfaces for days. A 2015 study demonstrated that copper could deactivate human coronavirus 229E, and more recent studies have indicated it’s as effective against COVID-19 as well. Given its long-proven ability to combat pathogens, there is a call to use more copper surfaces in hospitals and high-touch public areas.
Antimicrobial Copper Products
Antimicrobial copper breaks down pathogens in a complex process. Copper ions enter the pathogen cell after the cell recognizes them as vital nutrients. The ions rupture the cell membrane, weakening it. As copper ions continue to flow into the cell, they increasingly interfere with the cell’s metabolism until the pathogen can no absorb nutrients or multiply. Antimicrobial copper products have demonstrated their ability to do this with a wide variety of viruses and bacteria.
A treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 could be months or years in the making. Our best course of action for now is to stop the spread, and antimicrobial copper can play a role in that process.
Antimicrobial Copper Laminating Film
While it may be prohibitively expensive or time-consuming to replace every surface in a facility with copper, Adams Plastics has come up with an alternative: Safe Touch Antimicrobial Film. It’s easy to apply over existing materials and offers the same sterilizing properties. It’s a semi-permanent solution that can easily be reapplied when the original Safe Touch Antimicrobial Film gets damaged. Like copper itself, it’s safe for humans and safe for the environment.
The medical industry in particular would benefit from the use of antimicrobial copper products in hospitals and clinics. Studies have shown as much as a 90% reduction in live bacteria on high-touch surfaces in busy hospitals and intensive care units.
Get In Touch With Adams Plastics
Adams Plastics was founded in 1967, and over the last five decades we’ve become a leader in plastic film and recycling. We provide vinyl film, imitation leather, and laminate—as well as plastics recycling—for the healthcare, hospitality, marine, and automotive industries. With the rise of COVID-19, we saw the opportunity to put our years of experience with films and laminates to use to create an antimicrobial laminate that may serve us all during this health crisis—and through any that may arise in the future.
