How FRP Supports Modern Data Center Infrastructure

21 May 2025

 

Key Takeaways

  • FRP offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for rooftop and cooling applications.

  • Lightweight FRP gratings reduce structural loads and are easy to install.

  • FRP sectional tanks are durable, low-maintenance, and suitable for cooling systems.

  • FRP provides a longer lifespan and better performance in data center environments than traditional materials like steel or concrete.

With Malaysia becoming a digital hub in Southeast Asia, more high-performance data centers are being constructed nationwide. This demand brings challenges related to safety, efficiency, and material durability, especially in mission-critical infrastructure like cooling systems and rooftop maintenance platforms. One material is quickly becoming a favorite among data center builders: FRP (Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic).

Why FRP is Relevant to Data Center Construction

FRP is increasingly favored in the data center sector because of:

  • Corrosion resistance to humidity and harsh chemicals

  • Non-conductive and fire-retardant properties

  • Lightweight yet strong, making rooftop applications feasible

  • Fast installation without welding or curing

  • Design versatility, ideal for custom-shaped platforms and tanks

Key FRP Applications in Data Centers

FRP Sectional Panel Tank for Cooling Systems

Data centers require constant and efficient cooling. FRP panel tanks are suitable due to:

  • Hygienic water storage

  • Modular design for tight spaces

  • UV-resistant and corrosion-free

Explore: FRP Sectional Panel Tank for Data Centers

FRP sectional panel water tank fully assembled on cylindrical concrete plinths, installed beside a data center in Gelang Patah, Johor.

FRP Grating Service Platform for Rooftop Chillers

Maintenance of rooftop chillers demands a non-slip, durable platform:

  • FRP gratings are lighter than steel and won’t rust

  • Fast installation without roof penetration

  • OSHA-compliant safety walkways

Grating platform installed on data center rooftop for safe access and maintenance of HVAC chillers

Close-up of non-slip pultruded FRP grating used in rooftop service platforms and industrial walkways

FRP Structural - Cable Trays, Cable Ladders, Caged Ladders

Beyond walkways and tanks, structural FRP systems like cable trays, ladders, and access equipment are critical in ensuring safety, performance, and durability within data center environments, especially where space is vertical or electrically sensitive.

  1. FRP Cable Trays

    • Non-conductive and corrosion-resistant

    • Ideal for high-voltage zones and humid environments

    • Lightweight for suspended ceiling installations

    • Long lifespan without galvanic reactions

  2. FRP Cable Ladders

    • Supports structured routing for large-diameter data and power cables

    • Withstands mechanical loading without sagging

    • Fire-retardant options available for critical server halls

  3. FRP Caged Ladders

    • Offers rooftop or mezzanine access with full-body safety cages

    • Weatherproof and rust-free in outdoor environments

    • Fastened using anchor bolts or bracketing—no welding required

    • Custom height and cage diameter based on project needs

Mui Fatt also provides custom FRP ladders fabricated with safety hoops, base brackets, and UV-stable coatings, suitable for rooftop access, internal plant mezzanines, or wall-mount configurations.

Pre-Installation Inspection of Mui Fatt FRP Caged Ladder for Edra Melaka Power Plant - Yellow Mui Fatt FRP caged ladder laid out for inspection at Edra Melaka Power Plant before installation, showcasing its corrosion-resistant and high-durability design for industrial safety.

Explore our project reference for FRP Fixed Ladder -  FRP Caged Ladders used at Edra Melaka Power Plant

Common Materials in Data Center Construction: Pros & Cons

Material Pros Cons
FRP Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, non-conductive Higher upfront cost than steel
Steel Strong, easily available Prone to corrosion, heavy, and needs regular maintenance
Concrete Inexpensive, good for heavy-duty structures Heavy, brittle under vibration, poor for rooftops
Aluminum Lightweight, rust-resistant Softer metal, lower load-bearing
Plastic (HDPE) Lightweight and cost-effective Limited structural strength, UV degradation possible

Why FRP Stands Out: Combines the structural strength of metal with the corrosion resistance of plastic, without conductivity or weight issues.

Why FRP is Widely Adopted in Modern Data Centers

Global construction trends point to increased use of prefabricated, modular materials. FRP fits perfectly into this approach:

  • Compatible with urban rooftop design

  • Promotes sustainability with long service life

  • Enables modular upgrades with minimal downtime

  • Proven use in U.S. and EU urban data center retrofits (source: Fibergrate Data Center Use Case)

Relevant Mui Fatt FRP Products for Data Centers

We recommend the following for data center projects:

  1. FRP Sectional Panel Tanks – Modular, corrosion-resistant water storage

  2. FRP Molded & Pultruded Gratings – Non-slip service platforms for rooftop chillers, walkways

  3. Custom FRP Fabrication – Covers, drainage trenches, access platforms

  4. FRP Caged Ladders – Safe rooftop access, non-corrosive

  5. FRP Cable Trays and Ladders - Durable, Non-Conductive Routing and Support Systems

Contact us on WhatsApp or email us at sales@muifatt.com.my to discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is FRP suitable for all types of data centers?

Yes. FRP can be applied in edge data centers, hyperscale facilities, and colocation sites—especially in rooftop, flooring, or water system areas.

Is FRP grating suitable for use as a service platform that supports human loads?

FRP grating can be designed for high-load capacity when using the correct pultrusion profile and span recommendations.

What certifications do your FRP tanks and gratings have?

Our FRP tanks and gratings are SIRIM-certified and listed under IKRAM SBBT, ensuring quality compliance for industrial use.

How long does FRP last in outdoor or rooftop settings?

Properly manufactured and installed FRP can last for decades, with little maintenance required.

How does FRP compare to steel in terms of cost?

While the initial cost of FRP is higher, the lifecycle cost is lower due to minimal maintenance, corrosion resistance, and extended durability.

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