Designing flexible fire protection for today’s and tomorrow’s data centres
Fire protection in data centres demands ease of installation, consistency of design, reliability, and above all flexibility, says Graeme Leonard, EMEA Division Manager – Fire Protection at Victaulic.
Fires in data centres are rare, yet the consequences are significant. Damage that causes a loss of functionality can have wide-reaching impacts on business, public services, and communities.
Delivering fire protection in these environments requires a unique design approach. Facilities are densely packed with technology; rows and racks of temperature-controlled equipment alternate between hot and cold aisles, alongside complex cooling systems that maintain precise conditions.
A well-designed fire protection system must provide effective defence while limiting collateral water damage when activated, protecting high-value capital equipment. Equally important is minimising the risk of accidental discharge or leakage from pipework caused by impact, vibration, or system wear.
In addition to robust protection, data centre owners prioritise standardisation. Many operate across multiple markets and seek design consistency across sites. They also require adaptability so that internal architecture can evolve as demand changes. Finally, there is a clear focus on value for money, with careful attention paid to total cost of ownership (TCO).
Best practice, best design
When beginning a data centre’s fire protection design, several best practice solutions should be considered. A preaction system is essential. From Victaulic, this will typically be a double interlock set-up, with cross-zoned detection, with the option for auto convert to back up power if the central power supply is unavailable. Dry pendent drops are another sensible inclusion, ensuring compliance with recognised sprinkler installation standards.
In edge data centres, there may also be the option to use a hybrid fire suppression system such as the Victaulic Vortex system. The FM-approved hybrid nitrogen and water solution rapidly extinguishes fires without toxic chemicals and ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
Flexibility is key
Flexibility remains one of the most important – and most challenging – design considerations. Data centres may be designed for a 30-year lifespan, yet usage planning is often undertaken in five-year increments. Airflow containment strategies, rack densities, and white space configurations will inevitably change over time.
The question, therefore, is not simply how to design for current layouts, but how to enable efficient modification without compromising protection or uptime.
One solution from Victaulic is the VicFlexTM Style VS1 UL Listed and FM Approved Flexible Dry Pendent sprinkler. This design enables easier relocation of outlets as building configurations evolve. The system is available in 38”, 50” or 58” lengths, each able to accommodate four 90˚ bends for maximum versatility.
Traditionally, fire protection systems use hard pipe dry pendant drops cut to bespoke lengths based on precise measurements. This requires multiple site visits for measurement, fabrication, and installation. In fast-moving data centre environments, where layouts frequently change, this approach can create delays and inefficiencies.
The VS1 solution provides the flexibility required within data centres while maintaining the reliability of a dry sprinkler system. The unique braided pipe of the Style VS1 can be installed significantly faster than traditional threaded black pipe systems. It arrives on site ready to install, eliminating the need for hard-wired piping fabrication.
Aims of keeping water as far away from the servers are met and the flexible nature of the solution ensures that as room architecture evolves, fire protection can be maintained without extensive rework.
Supporting future-ready infrastructure
Standardised, easy-to-install systems offer clear advantages for data centre operators seeking consistency across multiple locations. ‘Plug and play’ approaches can support design repeatability while also improving installation reliability. Another practical benefit is reduced time on site for installers – something operators value given the security and commercial sensitivity of many facilities.
As the Gulf region continues to invest in both hyperscale and edge facilities, the ability to design adaptable fire protection systems will only become more important. Advances in IoT networks and AI will demand solutions that evolve alongside technology. Designing fire protection that is resilient, standardised, and flexible is, therefore, not simply a compliance exercise – it is a strategic enabler of long-term operational continuity.
Ends.
February 2026
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Since 1919, Victaulic’s solutions and drawing services have increased construction productivity and reduced risk, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time and within budget. Driven by a spirit of continuous innovation, Victaulic’s portfolio of 100,000+ products and patented technologies promote freedom of design, safe and efficient jobsites, as well as simplified inspection and maintenance for the life of any system.
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