Why GPO-3 Is Essential for Data Centers

Why GPO-3 is Essential for Data Centers

Data centers demand unmatched reliability. With thousands of servers, miles of cabling, and high-voltage equipment operating simultaneously, these facilities depend on materials that provide consistent electrical insulation, structural integrity, and fire protection. One of the most widely used materials for these critical needs is GPO-3, a fiberglass-reinforced polyester laminate engineered for high performance in electrical environments.

Known for its excellent dielectric strength, flame resistance, mechanical stability, and arc-track resistance, GPO-3 plays an important role in ensuring uptime, safety, and long-term durability across a wide range of data center systems. From electrical cabinets and switchgear to busbars and power distribution units, the material helps protect sensitive equipment from electrical faults and environmental stress.

This article explores what GPO-3 is, why it excels in mission-critical environments, and how it supports reliable data center operation.

What Is GPO-3?

GPO-3 is a glass-reinforced polyester laminate manufactured from layers of fiberglass mat (or sometimes continuous filament glass) saturated with an unsaturated polyester resin. These layers are then heat-cured under pressure to form a rigid sheet with excellent electrical and mechanical performance.

It is often referred to as:

• GPO-3 sheet

• GPO-3 fiberglass laminate

• Glastic® (a brand owned by the Röchling Group)

• Glass-polyester laminate

The combination of polyester resin and fiberglass reinforcement gives GPO-3 a reliable balance of strength, insulation, and flame resistance, making it one of the most trusted materials for electrical environments, including data centers where equipment uptime is critical.

Key Material Features of GPO-3

GPO-3 is valued in data centers for its performance properties, which meet the strict requirements of electrical and power-management equipment.

High Dielectric Strength

One of the core reasons GPO-3 is used in data centers is its ability to withstand high voltages without breaking down. This makes it ideal for insulating busbars, switchgear, power distribution units, transformers, and electrical panels.

Arc and Track Resistance

Data centers cannot afford electrical arcing, which can lead to equipment failure, fire, or outages. GPO-3 resists arc propagation and electrical tracking even in high-energy environments, helping extend equipment lifespan and improve safety.

Flame Retardancy (Typically UL-94 V0)

Most GPO-3 sheets are classified as UL-94 V0, meaning the material self-extinguishes within seconds and does not drip flaming particles. This is essential in data centers where fire hazards must be minimized. Flame-resistant electrical insulation helps protect power systems, server racks, cable management housings, and backup power equipment.

High Mechanical Strength

GPO-3 sheets maintain structural strength even when machined into custom shapes for electrical components. It offers good compressive strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to cracking under load. These qualities make it suitable for use as supports, barriers, spacers, and internal structural components.

Thermal Performance

Data centers generate significant heat, especially in areas around power distribution equipment. Stable up to approximately 266°F (130°C), depending on the grade, GPO-3 performs well in environments with elevated temperatures. It also maintains its strength when exposed to warm airflows or electrical heat sources, and its low thermal conductivity helps contain and isolate heat.

^{* Data is approximate and may be based on averages. Contact your local Piedmont Plastics sales representative for specific product specifications.}

Moisture, Chemical, and Corrosion Resistance

Data centers (especially hyperscale facilities) often leverage evaporative cooling systems, humidity control, and chemical cleaning agents. GPO-3 resists moisture absorption, corrosive chemicals, and environmental degradation. This ensures insulation performance remains consistent over the long term.

Why GPO-3 Is Ideal for Data Centers

Modern data centers run on precise, uninterrupted electrical systems. GPO-3 supports reliability in several critical ways.

1. Electrical Safety and Insulation

Power distribution is the backbone of any data center. GPO-3 provides superior insulation for components such as busbars, switchgear, distribution boards, transformers, and battery management systems. By preventing short circuits, arcing, and dielectric breakdown, the material helps maintain uptime and extend component longevity.

2. Fire Prevention and Containment

Many GPO-3 grades meet UL-94 V0, one of the highest flame-resistance classifications for plastics. Fire safety is especially important in data centers because:

• Hot aisles generate high air temperatures

• Electrical faults can rapidly escalate

• Fire suppression systems may take time to activate

GPO-3’s flame retardancy helps reduce ignition risk and prevent fire spread, supporting compliance with strict safety standards.

3. Structural Support for Electrical Assemblies

Because it is mechanically strong and lightweight, GPO-3 is often used for applications such as equipment mounting brackets, insulating barriers, spacers, phase barriers, and arc shields. In these areas, it supports heavy electrical loads while maintaining rigidity and dimensional accuracy.

4. Reliable Performance in High-Humidity Areas

Data centers frequently employ evaporative cooling systems, which increase ambient moisture. GPO-3 retains its electrical properties even in humid conditions due to its low moisture absorption.

5. Compatibility with Cable Management and Cooling Systems

GPO-3 is easy to machine into custom shapes and can be used in components that support, separate, or insulate cabling and cooling infrastructure. Additionally, its thermal stability ensures that rising temperatures in server aisles do not degrade the material.

6. Long-Term Durability and Low Maintenance

Data centers are designed for long service lives. Materials that fail early cause outages, downtime, and frequent replacement costs. GPO-3’s resistance to heat, humidity, voltage stress, and chemical exposure makes it a long-lasting solution with minimal maintenance needs.

Common GPO-3 Applications in Data Centers

GPO-3 is used across a wide spectrum of mechanical and electrical systems in modern data centers. These applications rely heavily on dielectric strength and arc resistance.

Battery and Backup Power Systems

As data centers depend more on UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) units and battery storage, GPO-3 is used for battery rack insulation, separator plates, and electrical cabinet panels. Its flame-retardant and non-conductive properties reduce risk in energy storage systems.

Cable and Conduit Management

GPO-3 can be machined to create cable supports, mounting brackets, custom ducts and guides, and insulated barriers between sensitive wires. These components prevent electrical faults while keeping cabling organized.

Cooling and HVAC Electrical Components

Cooling equipment contains electrical control panels that benefit from GPO-3 mounting boards, insulating barriers, and component housings. Its thermal stability helps protect electronics in warm airflow.

Why Choose GPO-3 for Data Centers?

As data centers grow more advanced, their electrical systems must keep pace. GPO-3 provides the ideal balance of dielectric strength, mechanical stability, flame resistance, and long-term durability needed to support mission-critical infrastructure. Its versatility, safety, and performance make it a trusted choice for engineers designing power distribution, cooling systems, cable management assemblies, and backup power installations.