By Eamonn Ryan
The Pan African Data Centre exhibition and conference was held in Johannesburg on 16/17 July, bringing together many of the most important companies involved in data centres, but of interest to this magazine was the cooling of data centres. RACA Journal was there.
Louis Botha and Billy Durie of Aggreko at the Pan-African Data Centre exhibition and conference. © RACA Journal
The 2024 Pan African Data Centres exhibition and conference held on 16 and 17 July in Johannesburg put the HVAC industry in the spotlight with a panel discussion on the topic ‘Things are heating up – the growing innovation in cooling solutions’.
The primary focus was on the crucial issue of cooling in data centres, a topic that is garnering growing attention due to its substantial energy consumption and environmental impact.
A panel discussion (covered in greater detail in RACA Journal August issue), moderated by Jonker Bester, a partner at Spoormaker & Partners, was held and consisted of: Argyrios Papadopolous, a director of Greek HVAC company AIRCOCFD; Michael Young, application engineer (thermal): Vertiv; and Last Shadaya, senior mechanical engineer: Systemair.
The discussion highlighted various perspectives on how advancements in technology, particularly driven by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), are reshaping strategies for efficient data centre cooling.
Francois Schoombie, technical manager at ebm papst South Africa at the Pan-African Data Centre exhibition and conference. © RACA Journal
Bester commenced the discussion with a sobering statistic: data centres globally consume 1-2% of the world’s electricity supply. “While this percentage may seem modest at first glance, it equates to enough power to sustain cities or even small countries. With projections of data centre growth indicatint a potential doubling of this consumption to 4% in the near future, the urgency to innovate and optimise cooling solutions becomes increasingly clear.”
Young noted: “Energy consumption is the main driver. Technological improvements like variable compressors and modulating fans are promising, but their implementation must be strategic to yield actual energy savings.”
HPC is here, but it needs to be of cool mind and body
 Ben Selier, vice president, Secure Power, Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric. Supplied by Schneider Electric By Ben Selier, vice president, Secure Power, Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric It reads like a paragraph from a Philip K. Dick sci-fi novel: high performance computing (HPC) can perform quadrillions of calculations per second. Quadrillions, a word we seldom hear or even fully comprehend. But here we are, HPC can achieve it, catapulting us into world with groundbreaking inventions, innovations and complex calculations. To place it into perspective, a laptop or desktop with a 3 GHz processor can perform around three billion calculations per second. While that is much faster than any human can achieve, it pales in comparison to HPC solution. Supercomputers are probably the best known HPC solutions. They it contain thousands of computer nodes that work together to complete one or more tasks. This is called parallel processing. As mentioned, HPC is crucial across various domains, from scientific research to financial modelling and gaming development. For example, in the financial sector, HPC is used for virtually predicting market trends, involving the processing of vast datasets to identify patterns and insights. In gaming, the demand for high-performance machines at home underscores the even greater need for robust HPC infrastructure for game development and rendering. The development of 4K and 8K content, whether for gaming or streaming services like Netflix, relies heavily on HPC to manage the enormous computational requirements. A strong mind needs a body Like Vision in Marvel’s Avengers saga, HPC needs a body or rather a data centre to function optimally. And building these data centres come at quite the cost; it requires careful operational, financial and technical consideration. The above also a makes a case for organisations turning to hyperscale providers like Amazon and Microsoft which provide HPC-as-a-service, therefore, allowing organisations to rent computational power on demand. It enables organisations to expand their HPC capabilities without significant upfront investments. But for those who intend to go the HPC data centre route, the following should be carefully considered:
Liquid cooling, in particular, is gaining prominence for its ability to directly cool high-power components, such as processors and GPUs, reducing the overall thermal load on the system. This not only enhances energy efficiency but also allows for more densely packed computing clusters which is ideal for HPC. HPC and cooling in action Schneider Electric together with power and cooling expert, Total Power Solutions designed and delivered a new, high efficiency cooling system to help reduce the PUE (power usage effectiveness) of University College Dublin’s (UCD) main production data centre. UCD’s data centre was originally designed to accommodate HPC clusters and provides a platform for research at its university campus. Total Power Solutions and Schneider Electric replaced the existing data centre cooling system with our Uniflair InRow Direct Expansion (DX) solution. Schneider Electric’s InRow DX cooling technology offers many benefits such as modular design, more predictable cooling, and variable speed fans which help to reduce energy consumption. The solution at UCD includes 10 independent InRow DX cooling units, which are rightsized to the server load to optimise efficiency. The system is scalable to enable UCD to add further HPC clusters and accommodate future innovations in technology. This includes the introduction of increasingly powerful central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs). The InRow DX cooling units work in conjunction with UCD’s existing Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Row Data Centre System and provides a highly efficient, close-coupled design that is suited to high density loads. |
Optimising space usage
Mikhail Poonsamy of DC Mech, authorised channel partner of Airedale, says a modular design allows for a build-as-you-grow approach which may match the requirement from day 1 to a fully populated data processing facility. This minimises a large capital outlay and allows the business case to be more viable.
“Couple this with the ability to adapt airflow dynamically based on real-time conditions further enhances the overall energy efficiency of the data centre, resulting in substantial cost savings over time.”
“Cooling solutions for hyper-scale data centres, which handle large-scale IT processing, differ from those used in edge computing environments. Hyper-scale centres often require advanced, high-capacity cooling systems, while edge data centres, being smaller and more localised, may utilise more compact and flexible cooling solutions.
AireWall technology contributes significantly to energy efficiency within large hyperscale data centres.
He describes AireWall as a cooling solution that integrates fan wall technology. “Unlike traditional systems that rely on a raised floor, the AireWall replaces a structural wall with these with an array of cooling modules. This design optimises space usage and enhances cooling efficiency by using a fan wall system to manage air distribution and temperature control more effectively in these large data halls.”
He describes another significant advancement as the adoption of liquid cooling: immersion and direct-to-chip cooling technologies. These methods represent a departure from conventional air-based cooling systems and are designed to deal with unprecedented heat loads while still aiming to lower the Power Usage Efficiency (PUE):
- Direct-to-chip cooling: This technique involves delivering coolant directly to the chip level from a chiller or cooling plant. By cooling the IT equipment directly at the source of heat generation, this approach addresses the challenges of high heat dissipation more effectively. The goal is to manage heat more efficiently and enhance overall cooling performance.
- Immersion cooling: This method involves submerging IT equipment in a dielectric liquid that efficiently absorbs and dissipates heat. The dielectric fluid used is non-conductive, ensuring that the equipment remains protected while being cooled. This approach is particularly beneficial for high-density computing environments where traditional air-cooling systems are less effective.
Trafo Power Solutions designed its transformers to include an automatic on-load tap changer (OLTC). Supplied by Trafo Power Solutions
The trend towards liquid and immersive cooling is expected to grow. These technologies are poised to address the limitations of air-based cooling systems, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.
“Unlike conventional liquids, dielectric fluids are specifically designed to provide efficient heat dissipation without conducting electricity. This characteristic makes them ideal for use in immersion cooling systems, where IT equipment is submerged in a dielectric liquid.
“Dielectric fluids are non-conductive, insulating liquids that efficiently transfer heat away from electronic components. Although these fluids are not yet widely deployed in South Africa and abroad, they represent a forward-looking solution to the challenge of managing high heat loads in modern data processing environments. Their adoption is expected to increase as the need for more efficient heat dissipation becomes critical for AI and crypto (block chain) applications” says Poonsamy.
He explains that DC Mech approaches the challenge of optimising energy efficiency in cooling systems through a multifaceted strategy. The company not only provides equipment but also focuses on system optimisation and integration with IT infrastructure. The company emphasises the importance of high water temperatures, higher return temperatures, and energy-efficient components in cooling systems. By optimising these parameters, data centres can achieve significant energy savings, reduce operational costs and contribute to a more sustainable life cycle.
In addition to cooling infrastructure, DC Mech addresses the IT infrastructure side of cooling. This involves implementing containment solutions that manage airflow around servers, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the cooling system. By integrating cooling solutions directly with IT equipment, DC Mech ensures that the entire system operates more cohesively and efficiently.
Key considerations in designing cooling systems
“The design process should start with a focus on the IT equipment, as this dictates the cooling requirements. Understanding the heat load generated by the equipment and its associated operating parameters allows for the selection of appropriate cooling technologies and infrastructure. A modular approach to cooling system design allows for scalability and flexibility. By incorporating modular components, data centres can expand their cooling capacity as needed without over-investing in infrastructure that may not be fully utilised immediately.”
Scaling cooling systems effectively as data centre capacity grows requires careful planning and a balance between capital expenditure (CapEx) and operational costs. Poonsamy says: “For large data centres, it is often necessary to install an initial chiller plant with excess capacity to accommodate future growth. This build as you grow approach (if possible) ensures that the cooling infrastructure can handle increased heat loads as the data centre expands.
Andrew Koeslag of HiRef SA at the Pan African Data Centre Conference. © RACA Journal
“Modular cooling systems provide a cost-effective solution for scaling. These systems allow data centres to add cooling capacity incrementally, aligning with their growth and minimising initial investments. However, balancing this with the need for larger infrastructure components is crucial for managing both CapEx and operational costs effectively. We should always consider the commercial business case.”
Poonsamy lists one significant challenge in the data centre cooling landscape as the ‘cookie-cutter’ approach adopted by multinational companies. “These organisations often use standardised designs developed for one location and apply them globally. While this approach ensures consistency, it can encounter difficulties when the standardised design doesn’t fully account for local environmental conditions.
“In South Africa, for example, cooling solutions designed for other regions might face compatibility issues with local climate and infrastructure. This can lead to friction between international design specifications and local adaptation requirements. Often, cooling equipment arrives with pre-determined specifications based on designs outside of Southern Africa or Africa as a whole. This can lead to complications when the equipment must be adapted to fit local standards and operational conditions.”
This challenge can be addressed by collaborating closely with local consulting engineers to tailor cooling solutions to the specific conditions and requirements of the region prior deployment.
Monitoring plays a critical role in optimising the effectiveness of cooling systems. A sophisticated Building Management Systems (BMS) which adjust cooling parameters and components/equipment in real-time to maintain desired conditions. For example, if a cooling unit is designed the client’s SLA is tied to operate at 20°C, the system can dynamically adjust the water temperature, airflows etc, while still meeting performance criteria, thereby ensuring a SLA while improving energy efficiency.
Effective monitoring also aids in predictive maintenance. By analysing data from cooling systems, potential issues can be identified before they lead to equipment failures. Monitoring systems track events and alarms to detect patterns that may indicate underlying problems. For instance, a combination of critical and non-critical events can signal potential issues, allowing for proactive maintenance actions.
To prevent mixing of hot and cold air, containment strategies such as cold aisle and hot aisle containment are employed. This ensures that hot air is effectively managed and directed away from equipment. The employment of containment should be a requirement in every server room and data centre.
Airedale, the key partner of DC Mech, specialises in providing cooling solutions tailored for data centres. Their product offerings include:
- Precision Air Conditioning (PAC): Designed to handle high sensible loads typical of data centres, ensuring optimal cooling performance.
- Chilled water systems: Advanced systems for efficient cooling with minimal environmental impact.
- Custom solutions: Tailored cooling systems for various data centre needs, including high-density and modular cooling solutions.
Airedale is a world leader in the delivery of innovative thermal management solutions in mission critical environments like data centres,healthcare and towers & telecoms.
HiRef SA emphasises innovation and precision in cooling solutions
Headquartered in Rosebank, Gauteng, staffed by local management, HiRef SA was officially opened in September 2023 aiming to develop and foster local and regional relationships with clients and industry stakeholders to continue developing technologies and products that are good for the client, the industry and the environment. HiRef SA is 100% owned by HiRef Italy, providing innovative solutions of Italian-manufactured equipment in South Africa.
At the Pan African Data Centre Conference in Johannesburg, Andrew Koeslag of HiRef SA discusses the company’s strategic focus on data centre cooling highlighting trends and technological advancements in the sector.
The upgrade of a data centre in Nigeria has called for a custom-engineered dry-type transformer solution from Trafo Power Solutions. Supplied by Trafo Power Solutions
As a key player in data centre cooling, HiRef SA’s participation at the conference underscores their commitment to the industry. “Data centre cooling is our core business, so being here makes perfect sense for us. There has been an influx of large-scale data centres and telecom upgrades across Africa. We’re seeing significant activity with hyper scales like ADC and Teraco, alongside telecom giants such as Vodacom and MTN upgrading their infrastructure,” he notes.
Koeslag outlines the company’s comprehensive offerings in chillers and free-cooling chillers, designed to cater to data centre requirements. “We provide a full range of water-cooled and air-cooled chillers that are crucial for maintaining precise temperature control in the data centre environments along with heat pumps for heat recovery for the sustainability of data centre that can provide recovered energy to District heating or other industrial and commercial users. These products are integral to supporting various cooling configurations such as CRAC (computer room air conditioning) units, in-row coolers, and chilled water systems.
” Differentiating data centre cooling from other applications, Koeslag emphasises the need for precise environmental control. “Data centres require tighter temperature and humidity control compared to commercial air conditioning. Our solutions include advanced features like humidification and dehumidification to meet these exacting standards. We differentiate ourselves through continuous R&D efforts, exploring new refrigerants and technologies to stay ahead of industry standards,” he states.
HiRef SA’s research and development priorities, Koeslag says, include new refrigerants “which are pivotal in our R&D efforts, especially in moving away from high global warming potential refrigerants”.
Koeslag acknowledges new refrigerants’ slow adoption rate in South Africa but highlighted the influence of international standards set by global data centre operators. “Most hyper Detailing specific refrigerants targeted in their R&D efforts, Koeslag outlined applications for various units. “For CRAC units, we’re exploring R-513A due to its low GWP and A1 characteristics, while chillers are designed for refrigerants like propane, CO2 , R454B and R-1234ze. Each refrigerant is selected based on its environmental impact and efficiency.”
K&N Air filters offer efficiency and sustainability
On the sidelines of the Pan African Data Centre Conference in Johannesburg, Scott Harrison, international sales director of K&N Air Filters, discusses the company’s innovative approach to data centre cooling, highlighting significant energy savings and environmental benefits. The introduction of K&N’s air filters enables greener, more efficient data centre operations.
Scott Harrison, international sales director of K&N Air Filters, at the Pan African Data Centre Conference. © RACA Journal
K&N, better known in the automotive industry for over 50 years, has recently leveraged its expertise from the automotive sector to develop high-performance air filters tailored for industrial use, including data centres.
The journey into data centres began when a hyperscale giant, Apple, sought a sustainable alternative to disposable air filters. “Apple’s data centre manager approached us in early 2019 to design washable, reusable air filters. Following rigorous testing and refinement, K&N successfully implemented these filters across Apple’s facilities, reducing landfill waste by 25 tons annually,” explains Harrison.
“The key advantage of our filters lies in their low resistance media, which minimises energy consumption. Compared to traditional filters, our washable filters consume significantly less power, illustrating their efficiency and cost-saving benefits.”
Addressing the market entry into Africa, Harrison says: “South Africa has been a pivotal starting point. We’re already piloting our filters with a leading colocation company here. Their feedback will be crucial in validating our technology’s performance and energy efficiency claims.”
Despite being new to the African market, K&N aims to expand its footprint across the continent. “We’re here to forge partnerships, meet potential clients, and introduce our sustainable solutions to diverse industrial sectors. Our experience with early adopters has been overwhelmingly positive. We’re now preparing to roll out these solutions on a larger scale and are eager to develop detailed case studies that showcase the tangible benefits.”
One means of acquiring such case studies has been the distribution of free samples to potential HVAC customers across various sectors including data centres, industrial facilities, and commercial spaces like shopping malls, so users can see for themselves whether the filters offer substantial energy savings and environmental benefits.
A panel discussion held (covered in greater detail in RACA Journal August issue), moderated by Jonker Bester, a partner at Spoormaker & Partners, consisted of: Argyrios Papadopolous, a director of Greek HVAC company AIRCOCFD; Michael Young, application engineer (thermal): Vertiv; and Last Shadaya, senior mechanical engineer: Systemair. © RACA Journal
The move towards sustainability aligns with global trends in construction and building certifications such as BREEAM and LEED, which prioritise environmentally friendly practices. “In Europe, for instance, green initiatives like installing bicycle racks earn construction projects valuable green points. Similarly, our filters contribute to reducing landfill waste, making them an attractive option for developers seeking sustainability credentials.”
K&N aims to expand its presence across Africa by leveraging its UK base to cover the region effectively. “We’re committed to partnering with local stakeholders and advancing sustainable solutions. Our goal is to transform how HVAC systems are maintained and operated, ensuring efficiency and environmental responsibility,” says Harrison.
As K&N prepares to introduce its cutting-edge filters to new markets, Harrison expresses confidence in their potential impact. “It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about fostering a sustainable future for HVAC applications across Africa,” he concludes.
