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Feature of air-based cooling systems , offering enhanced performance and efficiency .
“ Unlike conventional liquids , dielectric fluids are specifically designed to provide efficient heat dissipation without conducting electricity . This characteristic makes them ideal for use in immersion cooling systems , where IT equipment is submerged in a dielectric liquid .
“ Dielectric fluids are non-conductive , insulating liquids that efficiently transfer heat away from electronic components . Although these fluids are not yet widely deployed in South Africa and abroad , they represent a forward-looking solution to the challenge of managing high heat loads in modern data processing environments . Their adoption is expected to increase as the need for more efficient heat dissipation becomes critical for AI and crypto ( block chain ) applications ” says Poonsamy .
He explains that DC Mech approaches the challenge of optimising energy efficiency in cooling systems through a multifaceted strategy . The company not only provides equipment but also focuses on system optimisation and integration with IT infrastructure . The company emphasises the importance of high water temperatures , higher return temperatures , and energy-efficient components in cooling systems . By optimising these parameters , data centres can achieve significant energy savings , reduce operational costs and contribute to a more sustainable life cycle .
In addition to cooling infrastructure , DC Mech addresses the IT infrastructure side of cooling . This involves implementing containment solutions that manage airflow around servers , thereby enhancing the efficiency of the cooling system . By integrating cooling solutions directly with IT equipment , DC Mech ensures that the entire system operates more cohesively and efficiently .
KEY CONSIDERATIONS IN DESIGNING COOLING SYSTEMS “ The design process should start with a focus on the IT equipment , as this dictates the cooling requirements . Understanding the heat load generated by the equipment and its associated operating parameters allows for the selection of appropriate cooling technologies and infrastructure . A modular approach to cooling system design allows for scalability and flexibility . By incorporating modular components , data centres can expand their cooling capacity as needed without over-investing in infrastructure that may not be fully utilised immediately .”
Scaling cooling systems effectively as data centre capacity grows requires careful planning and a balance between capital expenditure ( CapEx ) and operational costs . Poonsamy says : “ For large data centres , it is often necessary to install an initial chiller plant with excess capacity to accommodate future growth . This build as you grow approach ( if possible ) ensures that the cooling infrastructure can handle increased heat loads as the data centre expands .
Supplied by Trafo Power Solutions © RACA Journal .
“ Modular cooling systems provide a cost-effective solution for scaling . These systems allow data centres to add cooling capacity incrementally , aligning with their growth and minimising initial investments . However , balancing this with the need for larger infrastructure components is crucial for managing both CapEx and operational costs effectively . We should always consider the commercial business case .”
Poonsamy lists one significant challenge in the data centre cooling landscape as the ‘ cookie-cutter ’ approach adopted by multinational companies . “ These organisations often use standardised designs developed for one location and apply them globally . While this approach ensures consistency , it can encounter difficulties when the standardised design doesn ' t fully account for local environmental conditions .
“ In South Africa , for example , cooling solutions designed for other regions might face compatibility issues with local climate and infrastructure . This can lead to friction between international design specifications and local adaptation
Trafo Power Solutions designed its transformers to include an automatic onload tap changer ( OLTC ).
Andrew Koeslag of HiRef SA at the Pan African Data Centre Conference .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I October 2024 25