Contamination Control Sticky Mats
Using contamination control sticky mats in a data center provides a simple and effective method for reducing particulate contamination, protecting sensitive equipment, and maintaining cleanliness standards. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the benefits:
1- Prevents Contaminants from Entering the Data Center
- Sticky mats trap dirt, dust, and other particulates from the soles of shoes, wheels of carts, and other objects entering the data center.
- By placing them at entry points, they serve as the first line of defense against contamination.
2- Maintains Air Quality and Cleanliness Standards
- Reducing the number of particulates introduced into the environment helps maintain compliance with ISO 14644 cleanliness standards.
- This is particularly important for maintaining the "At-Rest" and "Operational" cleanliness levels of a data center.
3- Protects Sensitive Equipment
Dust and particulates can:
- Settle on server fans and cooling systems, leading to overheating.
- Damage delicate electronic components through abrasion or by acting as a carrier for moisture and corrosive elements.
- Sticky mats minimize the risk of these contaminants reaching sensitive equipment.
4- Reduces Maintenance Costs
Cleaner environments mean:
- Less frequent cleaning of floors, equipment, and HVAC systems.
- Reduced wear and tear on cooling and filtration systems.
- This results in lower maintenance costs and longer equipment lifespans.
5- Enhances ESD Control
- Many sticky mats are anti-static or ESD-safe, helping to reduce electrostatic discharge risks while also controlling contamination.
- This is particularly important in environments where ESD can cause critical damage to hardware.
6- Easy to Use and Replace
- Sticky mats are a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution.
- Each layer can be peeled off and discarded once it becomes saturated with debris, ensuring consistent performance.
7- Improves Compliance with Standards and Protocols
- Using sticky mats demonstrates adherence to best practices for contamination control, which is often required during audits or certifications for data centers.
Where to Place Sticky Mats in a Data Center
- Entry Points: At all doors leading into the data center to capture contaminants from shoes and wheels.
- Transition Areas: Between spaces with different cleanliness levels, such as outside a raised floor area.
- High-Traffic Zones: Near areas where personnel or equipment frequently enter or exit.
Best Practices for Using Sticky Mats
A- Replace Frequently: Change layers when visibly dirty to maintain effectiveness.
B- Use Proper Sizes: Ensure the mat covers enough area to capture contaminants effectively.
C- Combine with Other Measures: Use alongside anti-static flooring, HEPA filtration, and regular cleaning for comprehensive contamination control.
