Raised access floor stringer

Types of Raised Access Floor Stringer

Raised access floor stringers are horizontal support members that connect floor pedestals, offering structural support and stability for an elevated flooring system. Here's an overview of the different types of raised access floor stringers:

Stringers for access flooring in data centers are designed to meet the unique requirements of data centers, which include heavy equipment loads, high-density cabling, and cooling requirements. These stringers are robust and offer optimal support and stability for raised access flooring. They are usually made of galvanized steel to provide durability and corrosion resistance. Additionally, they may have cable management features like troughs or perforated designs to facilitate easy routing of data and power cables. Stringers for data center access floors typically have adjustable heights to accommodate varying infrastructure needs and cooling requirements. They ensure a stable and well-supported raised flooring system that meets the demands of high-performance data center environments.

Stringers for electrical and communication wiring are designed specifically to support and organize electrical wiring and communication cables that run beneath raised access flooring. They are constructed from materials that offer electrical insulation like galvanized steel or powder-coated steel. These stringers feature enclosed or perforated designs that facilitate airflow, reduce electromagnetic interference, and improve cable management efficiency. They may also have built-in raceways or channels to separate and protect high-voltage power cables from low-voltage data lines, minimizing the risk of interference and ensuring safety. Stringers for electrical and communication wiring ensure the organized and efficient routing of utilities beneath the raised access floor, providing easy access for maintenance and reducing congestion in subfloor areas.

Stringers for high-load capacity are designed to support heavy loads that are concentrated in specific areas of the raised access flooring. They are primarily constructed of steel due to its strength, structural integrity, and load-bearing capacity. These stringers may feature channel beams or I-beams configurations that distribute loads efficiently and provide maximum stability and support. Stringers for high load capacity access floors are typically installed at closer intervals than standard stringers to minimize deflection and ensure the structural integrity of the flooring system. They are ideal for environments such as industrial spaces, workshops, and heavy machinery areas where the elevated flooring must support substantial weight and traffic.

Function and feature of raised access floor stringer

Raised access floor stringers are also known as substructures. They provide structural support and stability to the raised access floor system. Below are some features of raised access floor stringers.

• Load-bearing capacity

  Raised access floor stringers provide structural integrity and support to the entire raised flooring system. They run beneath the floor panels and distribute loads to the pedestals.

  Stringers are designed to bear heavy loads from equipment, foot traffic, and more. They are constructed from high-strength materials like steel or aluminum.

• Modular Design

  Modular design allows for easy customization and scalability of the raised access floor system. It consists of stringers, stringer floor panels, and pedestals.

  The stringers support multiple floor panels, creating a continuous and stable surface. Modular design simplifies installation and maintenance as components can be easily replaced or reconfigured.

• Corrosion Resistance

  Corrosion resistance stringers are essential in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of the raised access floor system. They are constructed using materials that resist corrosion.

  These materials include galvanized steel, aluminum, and coated steel. Corrosion-resistant stringers can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

• Adjustability

  Adjustable raised access floor stringers allow customization of the floor height and support configuration. This feature enables precise control over the airflow, wiring, and plumbing installation under the floor.

  It also simplifies installation in uneven terrain or areas with varying height requirements. Adjustable stringers improve accessibility for maintenance personnel.

• Compatibility

  Compatibility raised access floor stringers ensure seamless integration with different types of floor panels. Compatibility stringers support various materials used for floor panels, such as wood, carpet tiles, vinyl tiles, and others.

Scenarios of Raised Access Floor Stringer

Stringers for raised access floors are applicable in different industries. Below are some of the common usage scenarios.

• Telecommunication rooms

  Telecommunication rooms store equipment for managing data and voice transmission. Raised access floors are commonly used in these rooms. The stringers support the floor tiles and create spaces for cables. The raised floors make it easy to install and maintain cables, preventing overheating. They also allow airflow and reduce floor congestion.

• Data centers

  Data centers house computers that require efficient cooling. Raised access floors are ideal for these facilities because of the cooling advantages. The stringers create uniform spaces that support the tiles and allow cool air circulation. The access floors enable proper cable management and keep the environment organized. They also reduce the risk of hardware damage from cable tangling.

• Commercial office spaces

  Access floors are popular in office spaces. The stringers provide structural support and create spaces for wires and air circulation. This setup allows for easy installation and maintenance of electrical wires. It also simplifies modifications when adding or removing equipment. Additionally, the raised floor design minimizes electrical hazards and keeps the office tidy.

• Clean rooms

  Stringers for raised access floors are also applicable in clean rooms. These spaces have controlled environments with minimal contaminants. The raised access floors support critical equipment and facilitate operations. They allow for easy cable management and minimize direct contact with the ground. Stringers also ensure the room maintains a sterile environment by reducing foot traffic contaminants.

• Server rooms

  Server rooms house servers that need proper cooling and cable management. Raised access floors support the servers and create spaces for air circulation and cables. Stringers ensure the servers are elevated from the ground. This positioning prevents overheating and allows cool air to circulate. The raised design also prevents direct contact with potential contaminants.

• Laboratories

  Labs carry out sensitive experiments that require controlled environments. Raised access floors are suitable for this application. The stringers support the floor and create spaces for wires and air circulation. They ensure minimal contaminants reach sensitive equipment. The raised design also prevents potential spills from reaching critical instruments.

How to choose raised access floor stringer

When choosing a stringer for a raised floor, there are many factors to consider. Here are some of them:

• Load capacity

  The primary consideration is whether the stringer can support the desired load. Higher loads require more robust stringers. Stringers should be chosen based on load capacity calculations that consider the weight of floor panels, equipment, and foot traffic.

• Floor heights

  For higher floors, stringers should be chosen that provide the required height and stability. Taller stringers are needed for taller floor risers to maintain strength and rigidity.

• Material durability

  Stringers are available in materials like steel, aluminum, and wood. Steel stringers have durable load-bearing capacities, especially aluminum stringers are lightweight and rust-resistant. Stringers should be chosen based on the material's ability to withstand the environment's conditions, such as humidity, temperature, and chemical exposure.

• Installation flexibility

  Some stringers allow for easier installation and adjustments than others. Stringers should be chosen for a raised floor that matches the installation crew's skill level and experience.

• Cost-effectiveness

  The initial cost of stringers is an important factor, but long-term value should also be considered. This includes their durability, maintenance requirements, and lifespan. Stringers should be chosen that provide the best overall value for the project budget.

• Compatibility with floor panels

  The compatibility of stringers with the selected floor panels should be considered. Different stringers work with various panel materials, sizes, and locking mechanisms. Stringers should be chosen that ensure optimal performance and stability with the raised access floor panels.

• Code compliance

  The local building codes and regulations should be considered when selecting stringers for a raised access floor. Stringers should be chosen that meet or exceed the required safety standards, including fire resistance, structural integrity, and environmental impact.

Raised access floor stringer Q&A

Q1: What are the stringers in a raised floor system?

A1: Stringers are the horizontal support beams that connect the pedestals. They provide structural integrity and support to the floor tiles. Stringers are installed under the access floor panels and provide support for the panels. Stringers are usually made of galvanized steel to prevent rusting. They consist of U-shaped channels that provide a rigid frame for the access floor system.

Q2: How do you install a raised access floor?

A2: Determine the layout of the access floor and mark the pedestal and stringer placement. Install the pedestals by securing the base plates to the subfloor using adhesive or bolts. Once the pedestals are installed, insert the stringers into the sockets of the pedestal. Begin placing floor panels starting from one side, locking each panel into the stringers and pedestals.

Q3: What materials are used in raised flooring?

A3: The substructure of a raised flooring consists of steel stringers and pedestals. The floor panels are made of different materials. The most common materials for access floor panels are wood, steel, and calcium sulfate. Other materials include high-pressure laminate, rubber, and anti-static materials.

Q4: What are the advantages of raised flooring?

A4: A raised access floor provides numerous benefits. It offers flexibility and easy access to the wiring and plumbing systems. This makes it easy to maintain these systems. It also enhances air circulation and improves cooling efficiency. This is because air is channeled through the access floor tiles. Raised flooring also accommodates changing office layouts and designs.