Mitigating data center NVH: The best materials for vibration and noise control 

Vibration, noise and harshness: These are major issues to overcome in data center design. Data centers are made up of intricate networks of servers, cooling fans, servers and countless other critical components that require 24/7/365 reliability. However, when noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) are left unchecked, they can lead to significant issues that can disrupt operations and make them more expensive to operate. 

Premature wear and tear

Power supplies, fans, external cooling systems, and other motorized devices can allow mechanical vibrations to propagate through the server chassis. Over time, this exposure can cause premature wear on server components, increasing downtime and service interruption, while increasing maintenance costs. 

Noisy work environment

One advantage of data centers is they typically require minimal hands-on labor. However, data centers can create a noisy work environment. Noise mitigation is a step toward creating a safer, more pleasant workplace. Bringing down the decibel level improves overall employee satisfaction. 

Why anti-NVH strategies are critical for data centers 

Effective anti-NVH strategies are critical, especially with data centers on the cusp of considerable expansion. Between now and 2030, they’re expected to see an annual increase of 19-22%. 

By managing NVH, you can gain the competitive edge in terms of efficiency and as a higher-quality workplace with the following benefits: 

  • Longer operational lifespans
  • Greater reliability
  • Reduced downtime
  • Lower maintenance needs
  • Fewer workplace injuries
  • Improved employee retention
  • Fewer sick days
  • Lower overall costs

How to mitigate NVH in a data center setting  

To mitigate NVH, you first need highly-engineered materials that are designed to absorb and dissipate noise and vibration. Foams, elastomers and adhesives used in panelings and components all contribute to decreasing decibel levels that create an unpleasant work environment as well as mechanical vibrations that cause premature wear and tear. 

Equally important is customizing these materials for a precise, gap-free fit to efficiently capture and disperse sound and vibration waves. To reduce noise and premature wear, partnering with SRP for custom die-cut parts is an essential part of your anti-NVH strategy. High quality materials and a precision fit: That’s where we excel. 

The best materials for anti-NVH solutions 

As a longtime preferred converter of Rogers and 3MTM, we can expertly source and fabricate anti-NVH materials into precision gaskets and custom parts. The following are some key NVH materials that can help dampen the noise and vibration in data centers.

BISCO® High-Performance Silicone Materials

Vibration Isolation and Damping
Perfect for attaching to server housings to absorb and reduce vibrations, protecting sensitive equipment and minimizing premature wear.

  • Products:
    • BISCO BF-2000, BF-1000, HT-800, HT-870 Silicone Foam
  • Features:
    • Less than 5% compression set resistance
    • 70% compressibility
    • Low natural frequency of 12 Hz
    • Ideal for space-constrained applications

Sound Absorption
Effectively reduce noise from high-speed cooling fans and minimize HDD performance degradation.

  • Products:
    • BISCO BF-1000 Silicone Foam
    • BISCO MF10-35, MF10-55 Silicone Foam
  • Features:
    • UL V0 rated
    • Effectively absorbs sound vibrations

Specialized Applications

  • BISCO MRF 400 Melamine
    • Features: Lightweight, UL V0 rated, noise absorption, and vibration mitigation. 

Discover your BISCO solution in our products section. 

PORON® Microcellular Polyurethane Foam

Vibration Isolation and Damping
Designed to absorb and reduce vibrations to protect equipment and performance time.

  • Products:
    • PORON 40 & 92 PU Foam
  • Features:
    • Less than 10% compression set resistance
    • 80% compressibility
    • Low natural frequency of 14 Hz
    • Ideal for space-constrained applications

Discover your PORON solution in our products section. 

Partner with SRP for precision gaskets for data centers 

For all your custom gasket needs, partner with SRP. Contact us today for a fast, accurate quote.