The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing has significantly heightened the demands placed on data centres, necessitating robust high-performance infrastructures. Central to this challenge is the critical role of cooling systems, which directly influence both energy efficiency and operational reliability.
As data centres confront escalating energy costs and an urgent need for sustainable practices, a strategic re-evaluation is essential. The ongoing global energy crisis has led to increased prices for data centre capacities, compelling operators to adopt more efficient and sustainable solutions. This shift is further exacerbated by the surge in demand for large language models (LLMs), which have skyrocketed in usage, services like ChatGPT, for instance, saw a staggering increase of 1,310% from late 2022 to mid-2023. In this landscape, data centre operators must not only secure their energy supply but also adapt their systems to keep pace with technological advancements.
Cooling technology has emerged as a pivotal factor for the effective operation of data centres. Efficient cooling not only ensures energy savings but also prolongs the lifespan of critical infrastructure under high power densities. The Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) metric serves as a benchmark for energy efficiency in data centres, measuring the ratio of total energy consumption to that used directly for IT operations. This metric underscores the importance of innovative cooling solutions in achieving optimal efficiency.
For example, utilizing advanced cooling technologies can yield substantial energy savings. Consider a data centre with a cooling load of 1 MW employing innovative piping systems. If optimized for 50 kW racks, such a system could save over 5,491 MWh of energy over a decade, translating to approximately $5.6 million in cost savings, assuming a 2.5% annual increase in energy costs. This illustrates how the right infrastructure can substantially lower operational expenses while enhancing energy efficiency.
Aquatherm’s blue pipe system exemplifies the potential of advanced cooling solutions. Constructed from PP-RCT, this innovative piping technology minimizes linear thermal expansion and ensures leak-free connections through a unique hot melting process. Compared to traditional materials like steel and copper, PP-RCT offers a reduced carbon footprint, heightened corrosion resistance, and exceptional thermal efficiency, leading to lower operating costs. Aquatherm’s expertise in data centre applications further enhances its value proposition, providing comprehensive support in planning and execution, including efficient prefabrication that streamlines project timelines.
Real-world applications of aquatherm’s technology illustrate its effectiveness. The Novva hyperscale data centre in Salt Lake City has adopted a waterless cooling system to mitigate the substantial water consumption associated with conventional methods. Vice President Steven Boyce cites a preference for aquatherm’s blue pipe system, which has performed reliably compared to previous experiences with corrosion-prone steel pipes.
Similarly, TierPoint’s Jacksonville facility has benefited from the installation of polypropylene pipes from aquatherm, which have proven to be nearly leak-free and corrosion-resistant since 2014. The swift installation and high performance of these systems prompted TierPoint to select aquatherm again for a recent expansion.
At the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, aquatherm tubes have been integral in cooling supercomputers since 2012. The light weight, chemical purity, and corrosion resistance of aquatherm’s solutions meet stringent water quality requirements, making them the preferred choice for high-stakes cooling applications.
As data centres navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, prioritizing energy efficiency and advanced cooling solutions will be paramount. By embracing innovative approaches, data centre operators can secure their infrastructures, reduce operational risks, and contribute to a more sustainable future in the digital age.
