Security

Ask something
Question Locked

What size cement block is acceptable?

0 helpful
8 replies

by jjhoffma

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.

I am currently involved in a tier 3 data center design where a portion of an old factory will be converted. The wall that will be the used to isolate the data center space i.e man trap and core network center was originally designed with steel stud and mesh with 5/8 drywall however we feel cement block would substantially increase the perception of security to customers. What size block would be acceptable to maintain tier3 standards, 6", 8" or 10"?
Thanks

8 replies

by peconet tietokoneet

But not knowing what the floor plans look like, it is a bit hard to justify the size or shape let alone material.

by ron k.

A determined person or group can get through block walls much easier than reinforced concrete. You need to have the foundation for it, of course. There are different grades of concrete too but you can look that up if you're interested.

by charliespencer

With the hollow blocks, the overall thickness of concrete is going to be the same regardless of size. It's the size of the holes and length of the short sides that varies; the thickness of all sides is going to remain the same.

by seanferd

Hang styrofoam insulation or cement panels and skim it with mortar.

if you actually want security, a concrete bunker is the way to go. Ceiling included, along with armored cabling where it exits the structure.

Cement blocks pose little in the way of deterrence, just a bit more than drywall.

by thechas

As your goal is perception and not function, I would go with a narrow brick or block facade wall on the outside and a 6" insulated wall on the inside.

You did say an old factory. I presume that climate control is limited at best for the main building. If you insulate your walls, you keep your cooling costs down.

For maximum security, you might consider a metal shield just inside of the brick wall. While copper plate is best, any fine screen will do.

That way, you can show off both the solid wall and that you have an effective data shield when a customers cell phone does not work inside your room.

Chas

by johnm

The brick or block facade is good for perception and the insulation is a good, practical idea. If you do go for a shielded room, however, you need to specify that the metal mesh strips overlap and must be continuously soldered to ensure adjacent strips are bonded and unbroken.

Imagine the pain of a contractor who pushed to meet his deadline by throwing up the interior drywall before testing for radio leakage and had to rip it all out, solder all the seams in a one-acre shielded building, and then replace the interior walls. Didn't meet his deadline, didn't meet his budget.

by reg-nbs-seo

If you control the whole floor I would go with a secure Faraday cage.
Open mesh steel box enclosing computer room, completely exposed to view from the surrounding office space.

Access by biometrics.

If you need insulation for AC needs you could use hanging clear plastic sheets to provide an insulating air space.

This discussion is closed to new replies.