Ceilings By Design now supplies Armstrong DataWorks DataStruct: a next-generation heavy-duty ceiling grid system engineered specifically for data centre environments.
As data centres continue to push density, load, and performance limits, traditional ceiling grid systems are no longer fit for purpose. Standard commercial grids were never designed to carry extreme point loads, support dense service infrastructure, or adapt to constantly evolving technology.
This is where innovative, purpose-engineered solutions like Armstrong DataStruct come into play. And it’s where Ceilings By Design has a critical role as a specialist supplier that understands data centre risk, performance requirements, and long-term infrastructure planning.
DataStruct represents a significant shift in how ceiling grid systems are specified for data centres. Designed in Australia and independently tested, this system transforms the ceiling grid from a passive support into active infrastructure, capable of carrying significant loads, supporting suspended services directly, and adapting as data centre requirements change over time.
For designers, engineers, and contractors working in high-risk digital infrastructure environments, DataStruct offers a purpose-engineered solution that reduces reliance on secondary steel, simplifies coordination, and delivers confidence in both performance and longevity.
Why data centres demand a different ceiling grid system
Data centres operate in a category of their own. Standard ceiling grid systems are typically designed to support ceiling tiles and light fittings. In data centres, grids are expected to do far more. They must carry cable trays, containment systems, cooling infrastructure, lighting, and auxiliary equipment, often at weights far beyond conventional design assumptions.
High-density cabling and containment
Data centres rely on extensive cabling networks for power, data, redundancy, and future expansion. Cable trays and containment systems are often suspended from the ceiling grid, creating significant distributed and point loads.
Hanging equipment and services
Beyond cabling, ceiling grids are used to support cooling infrastructure, lighting, monitoring devices, and sometimes security or fire detection systems. These elements are rarely static. They are added, removed, or reconfigured as technology evolves.
Cleanliness and controlled access
Many data centres operate under strict cleanliness requirements to protect sensitive equipment. Ceiling systems must allow access for maintenance and upgrades without shedding debris or compromising environmental control.
Continuous change
Unlike traditional buildings, data centres are rarely finished. Capacity is expanded, layouts are reconfigured, and systems are upgraded throughout the life of the facility. Ceiling grid systems must be adaptable without requiring wholesale replacement.
Conventional ceiling grids are not designed for these conditions. Under-specifying ceiling grid systems in data centres introduces unnecessary risk, increases reliance on secondary steel, and complicates coordination between trades.
Introducing Armstrong DataWorks DataStruct
Armstrong developed DataWorks DataStruct in response to the growing need for ceiling grid systems engineered specifically for data centre environments.
DataStruct is not a reinforced version of a standard grid. It’s a purpose-designed heavy-duty ceiling grid system developed to support extreme loads, complex services, and evolving infrastructure demands.
DataStruct outperforms other similar ceiling grid systems on the market
The defining feature of DataStruct is its load-bearing capability.
Unlike standard ceiling grids, which are limited to relatively low uniform loads, DataStruct is engineered to handle extreme point and distributed loads that reflect real-world data centre conditions.
Key performance characteristics include:
- Point load capacity of up to 599 kg
- Ability to carry approximately 400 kg/m2
- Designed to support heavy infrastructure suspended directly from the grid
- Reduced reliance on extensive secondary steel frameworks
- Complete 15-year system warranty supported by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions Australia
This level of performance allows cable trays, containment systems, cooling infrastructure, and other services to be safely supported by the ceiling grid system itself. As a result, projects benefit from simplified structural coordination; reduced steel tonnage; fewer penetrations and fixings into primary structure; and lower risk of clashes and rework.
While the upfront cost of a heavy-duty ceiling grid system may be higher than a standard grid, the overall project cost is often reduced when secondary steel, labour, and rework are taken into account.
DataStruct is easy to install
Beyond raw strength, DataStruct is designed for efficient installation and ongoing adaptability.
A key feature is its T-Slot installation system, which allows services to be attached and reconfigured without complex drilling or bespoke fixings. This has several important implications on site.
Reduced labour time
Simplified attachment methods reduce installation time and labour costs, particularly in environments where multiple trades are working simultaneously.
Cleaner coordination between trades
Clear load paths and attachment points improve coordination between electrical, mechanical, and ICT contractors. This reduces clashes and sequencing issues during construction.
Easier future upgrades
As data centre infrastructure evolves, services can be relocated or added without dismantling the ceiling grid or introducing new structural supports.
In operational environments where downtime is costly, these efficiencies translate directly into faster commissioning and reduced disruption.
Armstrong’s new ceiling grid system is fully compatible with data centre services
DataStruct is designed as a system, not a standalone component. It integrates seamlessly with the services commonly found in data centre environments, including:
- High-density cable trays and ladder systems
- Hot and cold aisle containment
- Cooling infrastructure and ductwork
- Lighting systems
- Monitoring, sensing, and auxiliary equipment
This compatibility ensures that the ceiling grid system does not become a limiting factor as technology and operational requirements change.
Plus, it works for both new builds and retrofits
DataStruct is suitable for both new data centre construction and retrofit or expansion projects.
New builds
In new facilities, DataStruct allows ceiling grid systems to be integrated into the overall structural and services design from the outset. This can significantly reduce the need for secondary steel and simplify coordination across disciplines.
Retrofits and expansions
In existing data centres, load capacity and modularity become even more critical. Retrofitting additional services into a ceiling system that was never designed for them introduces risk and complexity.
DataStruct’s high load capacity and modular assembly make it particularly well suited to upgrade scenarios, where new infrastructure must be added without compromising existing operations.
DataStruct is built to last, with a 15-year warranty to back it up
From a durability perspective, DataStruct is engineered as a long-term infrastructure solution rather than a short-term fit-out component. The system is backed by up to a 15-year warranty supported by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions Australia, reflecting confidence in its performance and longevity.
Why work with Ceilings By Design on data centre ceiling grid systems
Supplying ceiling grid systems for data centres requires more than access to products. It requires technical understanding of load paths, compatibility, and construction sequencing.
Ceilings By Design are experts in all fit out industries, and can support any project with:
- Design development and early technical discussions
- Assistance with specification and system selection
- Procurement of specialist Armstrong systems
- Confidence that the ceiling grid system is appropriate for the environment
- Reliable Australia-wide delivery
H2: Armstrong DataStruct available now through Ceilings By Design
If you are designing, upgrading, or expanding a data centre, our team can help you assess ceiling grid requirements and supply a heavy-duty ceiling grid system engineered to support today’s infrastructure and adapt to tomorrow’s.
Contact us to discuss ceiling grid requirements for your data centre project and ensure the system specified today is engineered to support future infrastructure demands.
