Rack Solutions 36U Side Panel for 28.875in (D) 111 Open Frame Rack

Designed for reliability in busy data centers and flexible IT spaces, the Rack Solutions 36U Side Panel is the ideal accessory for 28.875" deep 111 Open Frame Racks. This tool-less, non-locking side panel delivers fast, hassle-free installation while protecting sensitive equipment from dust and incidental contact. Its modular construction—split into 1, 2, or 3 sections depending on the rack height—simplifies on-site mounting, even in tight spaces, and makes future reconfigurations a straightforward task rather than a heavy lift. Built to withstand the rigors of daily use in server rooms and network closets, the panel combines sturdy steel with a durable powder-coated finish, delivering long-term performance without sacrificing accessibility. Whether you’re expanding a small IT closet or streamlining a larger data center, the 36U side panel provides comprehensive coverage with minimal downtime, enabling dependable airflow, cable management, and easy maintenance for servers, switches, PDUs, and other essential equipment in open frame racks.

• Tool-less, non-locking design enables rapid installation and removal, so technicians can access equipment bays in minutes without specialized tools or complex mounting hardware.
• Precisely engineered for 28.875" depth and 111 Open Frame Rack configurations, ensuring a secure, flush fit that minimizes vibration, rattling, and misalignment during operation.
• Modular construction with 1, 2, or 3 sections per side (depending on U-height) simplifies installation in tight spaces and supports straightforward future reconfiguration as rack needs evolve.
• Durable steel with a powder-coated finish provides robust protection against impact, abrasion, and corrosion while maintaining a clean, professional appearance in data centers and IT rooms.
• Optimizes airflow and cable routing by preserving open back-and side-paths, helping maintain efficient front-to-back cooling and organized cabling for mixed equipment stacks.

Technical Details of Rack Solutions 36U Side Panel for 28.875in (D) 111 Open Frame Rack

• Depth compatibility: 28.875 inches
• U height: 36U
• Rack compatibility: 111 Open Frame Rack
• Construction: steel with a durable powder-coated finish
• Panel configuration: broken into 1, 2, or 3 sections per side depending on height
• Installation: tool-less, non-locking mounting design for fast, maintenance-friendly access
• Finish: powder-coated for corrosion resistance and long-term durability

how to install Rack Solutions 36U Side Panel

• Confirm compatibility: verify that your enclosure matches a 28.875" depth and is an 111 Open Frame Rack to ensure a precise fit and optimal performance.
• Prepare the workspace: clear the area around the rack, remove any obstructions, and inspect the panel and mounting surfaces for shipping damage or debris that could affect seating.
• Align panel sections: for 36U configurations, align the panel’s modular sections with the corresponding rack posts or mounting channels. Ensure each segment runs parallel to the rack frame without binding.
• Install sections one by one: begin with the lower section and work upward, seating each segment firmly into place. The tool-less design typically uses built-in clamps or latches that engage with the rack rails without tools.
• Secure and verify fit: engage all tool-less fasteners along the panel edges, then press gently along the panel to confirm a snug, gap-free seating. Check for any interference with adjacent panels, doors, or cabling paths.
• Inspect airflow and clearance: ensure there is ample space behind the panel for cable routing and that front-to-back airflow pathways remain unobstructed. Adjust section positioning if needed for optimal cooling.
• Repeat if installing on both sides: if you are adding panels to multiple sides of the rack, repeat the process for each side, maintaining consistent alignment with the frame and doors or side panels already in place.
• Finalize and test: after installation, power on equipment to confirm stable operation, and perform a quick physical check to ensure the panels remain firmly seated during normal use or minor vibrations.

Frequently asked questions

• What rack depth does this panel fit? It is designed for racks with a 28.875-inch depth, specifically the 111 Open Frame Rack models that match this dimension.
• Is the side panel lockable? No. The product features a tool-less, non-locking design to enable quick access for maintenance and upgrades.
• How many sections does the panel break into? The side panels are offered in various heights and are broken into 1, 2, or 3 sections per side depending on the U-height of the panel, with 36U typically utilizing multiple sections for easier installation.
• Is hardware included with the panel? The panel is designed for tool-less installation and uses built-in mounting features; refer to the packaging for the exact contents and any included hardware or adapters.
• Can I use this panel on non-Rack Solutions enclosures? It is specifically designed for 111 Open Frame Racks with a 28.875" depth; compatibility with other frame types should be verified with Rack Solutions’ compatibility guidelines.