Compiled by Eamonn Ryan based on the SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre Tech Talk on September 19 by Michael Young, mechanical engineer
Liquid cooling isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. This is Part 6 of a ten-part series.

Michael Young, mechanical engineer. © RACA Journal
Several factors influence its suitability for different types of data centres. Here are some key points to consider:
- Density of IT equipment: Liquid cooling excels in high-density environments, such as those hosting AI or GPU-based servers. If a data centre primarily houses older or less dense equipment, traditional air cooling methods may suffice.
- Cooling requirements: If the workload fluctuates significantly, data centres might benefit from the dynamic cooling capabilities of liquid systems. However, for stable workloads, existing air cooling systems may still be effective.
- Infrastructure costs: Implementing liquid cooling can involve significant upfront costs, including installation of cooling distribution units, piping, and maintenance. Smaller data centres with limited budgets may find air cooling to be more feasible.
- Reliability and redundancy: While liquid cooling systems can provide efficient cooling, they also introduce risks, such as leaks. Ensuring redundancy in these systems is crucial, but this can add complexity and cost.
- Scalability: For data centres planning for future expansion or increased workloads, liquid cooling systems can be designed to accommodate higher capacities more effectively than traditional systems.
- Environmental considerations: Regions with specific environmental regulations or conditions might influence the choice between air and liquid cooling.