Data Centres of Tomorrow: Latest HVAC Innovations
In this opinion piece, Andy Lewis, Design Manager at Weatherite, explores the cutting-edge HVAC technologies transforming data centre cooling. As data centres grow, efficient and sustainable solutions are crucial. This article highlights the innovations shaping the future of HVAC systems in data centres.
In the era of digital transformation, data centres have become the beating heart of modern businesses. The rise in computing power and high-density servers has propelled data centres to new heights, demanding unprecedented efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in their cooling solutions. As Design Manager at Weatherite, I am privileged to witness and contribute to the advancements in HVAC technologies that are redefining the landscape of data centre cooling.
The evolution of data centres is marked by a significant increase in power consumption and heat generation. Traditional cooling methods, primarily based on direct and indirect air systems, are reaching their limits. These systems are struggling to cope with the escalating demands without the integration of liquid cooling solutions. At Weatherite, we’re pioneering hybrid cooling solutions that seamlessly blend air and liquid cooling technologies to meet the needs of the future.
The Case for Hybrid Cooling Solutions
Direct air systems, while efficient, often face challenges in high-density environments. The risk of contaminants and the inability to adequately cool high-specification rooms make these systems less viable as standalone solutions. Indirect cooling, coupled with adiabatic cooling, has emerged as a preferred method for minimising compressor loads and enhancing efficiency. However, the integration of liquid cooling is becoming increasingly embraced.
Liquid cooling, whether through direct-to-chip or immersive methods, offers unparalleled efficiency. Direct-to-chip cooling involves the application of a liquid coolant directly to the server's hottest components, such as CPUs and GPUs. This method ensures precise temperature control and significantly reduces energy consumption. Immersive cooling, on the other hand, submerges entire servers in a thermally conductive dielectric liquid, providing exceptional heat dissipation.
Weatherite's Pioneering Approach
We’re at the forefront of developing innovative hybrid cooling solutions. Our approach combines the best of air and liquid cooling to create systems that are not only efficient but also sustainable. We’re currently collaborating with a leading data centre provider to develop our cutting-edge, and scalable concepts in hybrid cooling.
Addressing Sustainability Concerns
This increased usage of data centres brings sustainability concerns to the forefront. Data centres already use 1.5% of global electricity consumption, making providers key players in the hunt for net zero. Improving energy efficiency presents many challenges to the data centre industry — but also exciting opportunities for innovation.
The average modern data centre uses around 40% of its power for cooling. After all, to provide a secure, high-quality service, processors and other hardware must be kept in optimal conditions. By adopting advanced cooling technologies, data centres can reduce their energy consumption, operational costs, and carbon footprint. The integration of hybrid cooling solutions can lead to a reduction in power usage effectiveness (PUE), driving both economic and environmental benefits.
The Impact of Efficient Cooling
Efficient cooling solutions are not just a technological advancement; they’re a business imperative. According to the Uptime Institute's 2023 Data Centre Industry Survey, PUE remains a critical metric for data centres, with an average of 1.58 across the industry. However, best-in-class facilities are achieving PUEs as low as 1.2, showcasing the potential for significant energy savings.
Liquid cooling offers significant energy savings compared to traditional air cooling methods at very high densities. These improvements not only enhance the sustainability of data centres but also contribute to broader efforts to combat climate change.
Looking Ahead
The future of data centre cooling lies in the seamless integration of diverse technologies to create hybrid solutions that are both efficient and sustainable. At Weatherite, we’re committed to exploring and implementing the latest innovations to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Our collaboration with data centre providers is a testament to our dedication to pioneering solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible.
A Final Note
The journey towards the data centres of tomorrow is paved with challenges and opportunities. As we navigate this landscape, the role of advanced HVAC technologies cannot be overstated. By embracing the latest advancements in HVAC technologies, we can build data centres that not only meet the demands of today but also pave the way for a greener, more efficient future.
We’re proud to lead the charge in developing hybrid cooling solutions that are efficient, reliable, and sustainable.
Andy Lewis is Design Manager at Weatherite, a HVAC solutions provider. Andy started as a Trainee at Weatherite 24 years ago and has worked his way up through many departments over the years – currently managing the Design & Applications Department.
For more information about Weatherite, please visit: www.weatheritegroup.com or call us on +44 (0) 121 665 2266.
This article was originally published on Techerati.com.