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Zinc Whiskers in Data Centres: A Hidden Risk
Data centres rely on stable, uninterrupted digital infrastructure. But hot-dipped galvanised steel grating, zinc-plated floor tiles and metallic cable trays introduce a little-known threat:
Zinc Whiskers
These microscopic conductive filaments grow on zinc-coated surfaces.
Over time, they detach, become airborne, and can enter IT equipment airflow.
Once inside servers, they can cause:
- Intermittent shorts
- Hardware outages
- Critical system failure
The Solution: Treadwell FRP
FRP (Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic) contains no zinc, meaning it cannot form or release zinc whiskers.
Additional benefits:
- Corrosion resistant
- Non-conductive
- Low maintenance.
- Lightweight for easier installation
Ideal for:
- Data centre raised flooring
- Sub-floor cable management
- Server room platforms & walkways
Key Moments
- 0:04 🖥️ Data centres are crucial for technology operations, hosting virtualised IT infrastructure for multiple users.
- 0:33 ⚠️ Hot dipped galvanized materials, while preventing corrosion, generate zinc whiskers that can hinder data centre functionality.
- 01:02 🔧 Zinc whiskers are small, dangerous filaments that can cause short circuits and equipment failures in data centres.
- 01:11 🌍 Treadwell Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic grating is recommended to mitigate the risks associated with zinc whiskers and corrosion.
Why Choose Treadwell Australia for Data Centre Projects?
- Proven FRP performance in mission-critical digital infrastructure
- Full design → supply → fabrication support
- Zero zinc whisker material system for safe uptime environments
- Trusted by utilities, telcos, government & hyperscale operators
Protect your infrastructure. Prevent downtime. Specify FRP.
