Compiled by Eamonn Ryan based on the SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre Tech Talk on September 19 by Michael Young, mechanical engineer
In the world of data centre cooling, one question often arises: Is liquid cooling the right choice for every data centre? This is Part 7 of a ten-part series.
Michael Young, mechanical engineer as part of a panel discussion at the Pan African Data Centre conference and exhibition earlier this year. © RACA Journal
The answer is nuanced and depends on several critical factors. Let’s explore the considerations that can help determine whether liquid cooling is applicable and beneficial for a particular data centre.
Key considerations
- Workload and space availability
The first factor to assess is the current workload of the data centre. High-density workloads, such as those found in AI or GPU computing, may benefit significantly from liquid cooling, which is more effective at dissipating heat compared to traditional air cooling. However, if a data centre has a lower workload and ample space, air cooling may still be sufficient and more cost-effective.
- Climate conditions
The climate in which the data centre operates plays a crucial role in cooling efficiency. Liquid cooling systems can be more energy-efficient in cooler climates where outdoor air can be leveraged for free cooling. Conversely, in hotter environments, liquid cooling might be necessary to manage higher heat loads effectively, but it could also increase energy consumption if not designed correctly.
- System design
The design of the cooling system itself is paramount. This involves understanding the temperature parameters that need to be maintained for optimal performance. The ASHRAE TC 9.9 guidelines provide a framework for these design considerations, outlining temperature ranges for different types of cooling systems.
For instance, the following clauses from ASHRAE TC 9.9 are significant:
W1: Supply water temperatures ranging from 2°C to 17°C.
W2: Supply water temperatures from 2°C to 27°C.
W3: Associated with cooling towers.
Understanding these temperature requirements helps in selecting the right cooling technology and avoiding systems that do not meet the thermal demands of the equipment.
Liquid cooling is not universally applicable to all data centres. Its suitability hinges on various factors, including workload intensity, available space, climate conditions, and system design considerations. Each data centre is unique, and assessing these elements will guide the decision-making process regarding the implementation of liquid cooling solutions.
