Separation between Data Equipment and Electric Power Equipment

[joan271273]

We are currently building a new computer room in an occupied facility. We have found during demolition activities and 600AMP bud duct running within the area of the future computer room.
As the room will have raised floor we are trying to determine if the server racks are going to be impacted by EMF.
What is the minimum separation between electrical equipment and server racks and data cabling.

I did a search within the forums with no luck.

 

[dpc]

The bus duct should have a relatively low magnetic field associated with it since the three phases are in close proximity and provide a good cancellation effect.

I don't know of a "minimum" separation in terms of NEC or other codes. "As far apart as practical" is always a good rule to apply. Data centers often have fairly high current "Power Distribution Centers" sitting right next to server racks and this seldom causes problems if properly installed.

On the other hand, you don't really want a 600A bus duct running through a computer room unless it has business to do there. I'd re-route it.

 

[joan271273]

Thanks dpc, for the response. Currently the re-routing is not possible due to the costs and shutdown associated. We check with local electrical inspector and he advised that he does not have any issue with and does not require to be part of the computer room EPO system.

 

[alehman]

EIA/TIA-568 specifies recommended clearances to minimze EMI. The only NEC requirements pertain to separation of wiring when in the same enclosure as power conductors.

 

[JBinCA]

Three thoughts:

1. The bus duct probably does a good job of attenuating or shielding EMF, especially if it is the "sandwich" type (phases stacked directly on top of each other).

2. Buy a gauss-meter ( < $100? ), measure the field at point where the planned equipment would be closest to the bus-duct, and compare the field strength to a survey of other equipment in the same room (or other locations to which you may have access). The point here is to quantify the problem and establish some sort of basis for comparison.

3. Constructing additional shielding is always an option as well.

JMB

 

[itsmoked]

Good answer JBinCA!

 

[alehman]

Magnetic shielding materials are available that can be fabricated into almost any shape. They are costly however.

http://www.amuneal.com