Ensuring safety and reliability in data centres: the critical role of electrical protection

(See Mersen at Machine Building North, 13 May 2026, on stand 125)

Data centres are not merely warehouses for servers; they are highly complex infrastructures that require uninterrupted power supply to function efficiently. Any disruption, whether due to a power surge, voltage fluctuation, or electrical fault, can have catastrophic consequences, leading to downtime, data loss, and potentially millions of dollars in damages.

Mersen stands out as the perfect solution provider to address the safety and reliability concerns in the data centres market. Mersen offers a comprehensive portfolio of electrical protection products designed to meet the diverse needs of data centre operators. From IEC and UL fuses, surge protection devices and fuse switch disconnectors for power distribution systems, Mersen's extensive range of solutions covers every aspect of electrical protection, ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind for data centre operators.

For over 130 years, Mersen has extensive experience and expertise in electrical protection solutions. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges of its customers, Mersen can offer or develop tailored protection strategies to safeguard critical data centres equipment and infrastructure against electrical faults, surges, and other anomalies.

One of the fundamental pillars of ensuring the safety and reliability of data centres is robust electrical protection systems that are designed to detect various electrical anomalies, thereby preventing downtime.

Mersen ProGrid solutions are a new generation of electrical protection devices designed to protect, monitor, detect and report events on the low-voltage grid. They are based on the NH fuse switch-disconnector and provide digitalization of the grid infrastructure.

The ProGrid NH fuse-switch-disconnectors meet all the requirements of the industry for power distribution in grid and transformer stations, cable distribution cabinets, and low-voltage distribution boards.

The ProGrid Smart fuse-switch-disconnectors are equipped for "smart" functionality with integrated sensors, offering a contact-less direct access to live power and condition data of the bus bar system. The Mersen ProGrid Smart fuse-switch-disconnector with bottom module offers a very compact design, making it the most compact smart solution available. It has the same footprint as a regular NH fuse-switch-disconnector, making it perfect for retrofitting existing switchgear panels.

Designed for bottom fitting or panel installation, Mersen Multibloc are the perfect fit for installation in distribution units to obtain a uniform profile in height and length. Both ProGrid and Multibloc are designed for Mersen NH fuse-links, in accordance with IEC/EN 60269 and 60269-2, and VDE 0636 and 0636-2, in various sizes and many amperages.

Data centres operate around the clock, providing continuous services to users worldwide. Any interruption in power supply, even for a fraction of a second, can disrupt operations and electrical faults can corrupt data or cause irreparable damage to storage devices, leading to major data loss.

Mersen's Compact Fused Switches are the next level of safety. They incorporate the switch functionality with the high protection level of a fuse. The switch accepts UL class CC fuses up to 30A. In addition to this, the Compact Fused Disconnect is UL 98 listed and suitable for use as main/feeder device and, in conjunction with CC fuses, is rated for branch circuit protection. It has a smaller footprint compared to a traditional Class CC disconnect with a max interrupting rating of 200kA.

The compact form factor and ease of installation makes it a great choice for electrical panels, whereas the easy lockout/tagout feature and IP20 rating ensures additional safety along with the built-in switch capability.

For all circuits up to 690V for protection of transformers, low voltage distribution and control circuits the comprehensive Modulostar range of Mersen fuse-holders plays a pivotal role in maintaining electrical safety. They are finger-safe under IEC standards to an IP20 grade of protection, including fuse changing, with the flick of a finger and provide visual blown fuse indicator, in IEC or IEC + UL version.

In summary, Mersen's combination of expertise, product portfolio, innovation, global support and commitment to sustainability makes it the ideal partner for data centre operators seeking reliable, efficient, and future-proof electrical protection solutions. With Mersen as their trusted ally, data centres can enhance safety, ensure uptime and optimise performance in an increasingly dynamic and competitive landscape.