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Humidity increase is hidden challenge identified for data centres
One of the hidden challenges facing the global data centre industry is rising humidity levels , according to a recent report launched by temporary moisture and temperature control specialists , Aggreko .
In January , extreme weather was witnessed across the globe , creating a number of challenges for data centres . From flooding in Asia to heavy snowfall in Europe , these patterns have highlighted a new risk for facilities across the world . According to Aggreko , in addition to the more immediate power disruption impact brought on by such severe weather conditions , rising humidity and long-lasting damage caused by moisture should be a key concern .
Outlined in a report , The Hidden Cost of Humidity on Site , the challenge facing data centres is how the drying process takes place , following a period of flooding or heavy snowfall . According to the report , poorly managed moisture control can result in persistent damp and warping of materials , which can lead to long-term damage within a data centre .
Humidity levels are also a concern in the summer months and figures outlined in the report indicates that many data centre ‘ hot spots ’ are particularly prone to high levels of humidity . Among the areas to have a higher average humidity level than the recommended relative levels include Dublin , Frankfurt am Main , Amsterdam , Paris and Helsinki , all of which are popular among data centre operators .
In addition to issues encountered on construction sites , moisture , in the form of water vapor , can find its way into the smallest areas and spaces of any components .
This in turn can leave corrosive deposits behind that continue to cause damage after drying . Now , Aggreko is advising all data centre facilities – both in situ and those being contracted – to have an effective system in place to remove the moisture from the air .
Ryan Stanley , Moisture Control Specialist at Aggreko , said : “ Moisture build-up is an inevitable outcome of extreme weather patterns and its correct removal is a serious challenge for data centres . Unfortunately , not all teams are making the necessary considerations to remove moisture from sites entirely , with common mistakes prevalent .
“ For many , the immediate reaction to rising humidity is to use dryers to remove the problem . However , while the issue may appear to be resolved , drying doesn ’ t always remove moisture from the atmosphere and can actually cause long-term damage , impacting the lifespan of a data centre .”
The report sets out a three-step approach to managing humidity effectively , which includes a combination of heating a site , circulating the air and removing with dehumidifiers . p
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