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a technological solution but as a key player in the sustainable evolution of high-performance computing .
THE PATH FORWARD : WATER USAGE EFFECTIVENESS The conversation shifted towards the efficacy of existing metrics , particularly Power Usage Effectiveness ( PUE ) and Water Usage Effectiveness ( WUE ), in providing a comprehensive view of emissions . Shellnut shared his insights on the evolving landscape of metrics , emphasising the growing popularity of WUE . He acknowledged that WUE offers improved visibility into water consumption and helps dispel misconceptions surrounding liquid cooling solutions .
Shellnut contended that WUE is instrumental in addressing misinformation about water consumption in liquid cooling at the server level . By allowing higher operational temperatures and optimising the use of evaporative coolers , liquid cooling contributes to reduced water consumption . However , he also expressed his view that PUE , in its current form , has limitations and is prone to manipulation . He stressed the importance of developing alternative metrics that offer a more accurate representation of energy efficiency .
Latif echoed the sentiments on the limitations of PUE and the need for alternative metrics . While recognising ongoing efforts to improve PUE , he emphasised the importance of raising awareness about alternative metrics . The panellists collectively highlighted the need for a nuanced understanding of metrics to foster accurate comparisons between different types of liquid cooling technologies .
UNRAVELLING THE IMPACT OF EMBODIED CARBON On the point of embodied carbon in technologies , Latif addressed the question of measurement and its significance in the broader sustainability context . He emphasised the need to assess the overall carbon footprint of data centres , considering both direct and indirect emissions . He noted that while embodied carbon may constitute a small percentage at 1 – 3 % of overall carbon emissions , it remains a crucial factor in evaluating sustainability .
Latif stressed the importance of using recycled materials and opting for low Global Warming Potential ( GWP ) refrigerants , in mitigating embodied carbon . He highlighted the positive impact of liquid cooling , especially in reducing carbon footprints , and emphasised the inevitability of a shift towards liquid cooling as workloads increase .
High-power workloads , particularly AI , play a role in driving the adoption of direct-to-chip liquid cooling . Shellnut emphasised that liquid cooling is the way forward when it comes to addressing the challenges posed by high-density workloads . Latif echoed this sentiment , emphasising the importance of advanced liquid cooling technologies .
The panellists unanimously conveyed that the journey to higher-powered workloads is inevitably intertwined with the adoption of liquid cooling , providing not only enhanced cooling capabilities but also contributing to sustainability goals .
THE ROLE OF STANDARDISATION IN SUSTAINABILITY AND LONGEVITY Latif mentioned the pivotal role that standardisation plays in the evolving landscape of data centre cooling technologies . The current lack of standardised efficiency metrics poses challenges for PUE and the need for a comprehensive discussion on alternative metrics such as Quality Energy Efficiency ( QE ). The absence of standardised metrics creates uncertainties in comparing different cooling solutions , hindering efficient decision-making for data centre operators .
Latif also highlighted the need to standardise the design of cold plates , considering the diverse range of manufacturers and hardware configurations . He emphasised the importance of a robust and flexible cold plate design that can adapt to various hardware specifications , ensuring compatibility and longevity . The challenge lies in creating a standardised framework that accommodates different manufacturers and chip configurations without necessitating significant modifications during hardware refresh cycles .
The discussion pivoted to the role of organisations like ASHRAE ( American Society of Heating , Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers ) and The Green Grid in addressing standardisation challenges . Latif acknowledged ongoing efforts within these organisations to establish guidelines and standards that promote interoperability and efficiency in data centre cooling .
ASHRAE , as a prominent industry organisation , is actively engaged in developing guidelines for data centre thermal management . Its contributions aim to provide a common framework for designing cooling solutions that align with industry best practices . The Green Grid , known for its focus on data centre sustainability , plays a crucial role in driving initiatives that enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability .
The panellists collectively recognised the collaborative efforts needed to navigate the complexities of standardisation .
Continued in part two . RACA
“ The need to assess the overall carbon footprint of data centres , considering both direct and indirect emissions .”
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RACA Journal I April 2024 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za