42
Professionals who care
temperature of all the temperature readings . This one variable is compared against the setpoint of the unit and the fan speed is adjusted accordingly . So , if temperature readings are above the setpoint , the unit interprets this as insufficient airflow and increases the fan speed . Conversely , if temperature readings are below the setpoint , the unit interprets that there is excessive airflow and increases the fan speed .
So those are the two general ways on how we are now moving forward within data centre cooling with the focus on what we call airflow optimisation . To summarise , central to both methods is the concept of airflow optimisation , where the goal is not simply to maximise cooling capacity but to ensure that cooling resources are utilised in the most efficient manner possible . By fine-tuning airflow based on real-time data and feedback , data centre operators can achieve significant improvements in energy efficiency while concurrently enhancing the reliability of IT operations .
The implementation of these airflow control strategies underscores a broader industry trend towards greater energy efficiency and sustainability . As the demand for computing power continues to grow exponentially , so too is the need to reduce the negative environmental footprint of data centres . Having energy saving components such as variable speed fans within a cooling unit does not immediately result in a lower energy consumption . The way these components are controlled to meet the ever-changing data centre cooling requirement is the way true energy savings are accomplished . Therefore , clients and end-users alike are increasingly prioritising solutions that can adapt and respond faster to meet the demands of the data centre in the ultimate goal of accomplishing sustainability . RACA
“ Ensure that cooling resources are utilised in the most efficient manner possible .”
42
RACA Journal I September 2024 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za