Data centers play a significant role in global connectivity and most recently, are a key part to supporting AI demand.
However, the performance of these facilities depends heavily on effective thermal management, to avoid servers from overheating and underperforming. Henceforth, these centers are typically fitted with various cooling systems to ensure that they remain performing optimally.
But with computing demands shifting, the load on these data centers is increasing and therefore, so is the pressure on the cooling systems to keep temperatures constant. Yet with priorities also evolving to focus on energy efficiency due to net zero aims, how sustainable are data centers, especially as demand increases?
Why Heat Management Is Critical in Data Centers
Depending on the size of the data center, they can typically house between 2,000 and 5,000 servers on average, with large scale centers having over 100,000. In today’s digital world, single servers consume a high amount of energy to keep up with demand.
Because of the magnitude of energy it takes to power these servers, it is essential that cooling systems are installed to avoid the servers from overheating, or worse, catching fire.
If, for example, the data center was then compromised by a fire, this would then cause slower connectivity and potentially an outage, which can make a big impact.
Data Center Temperature Control Solutions Explained
Data center temperature control solutions are designed to combat the emittance of heat from these IT systems.
For example, some centers feature HVACs which can control the environment by regulating temperature, humidity and airflow.
Others have liquid cooling systems installed underneath the floor panels which directly removes the heat from the server.
Each of these solutions play key roles in keeping the facility at a consistent temperature and therefore, the servers working at optimal performance.
Data Center Thermal Management and Industry Standards
As discussed above, data center thermal management is essential for maintaining performance of the servers, but in a time where energy efficiency is key, balance is required.
Therefore, industry standards, as guided by ASHRAE, dictate that the ideal temperature for effective thermal management should be around 64.4ºF-80.6ºF. This allows for equipment reliability whilst ensuring energy efficiency.
Reducing Thermal Loss at Structural Connection Points
Because of the fire risk associated with these buildings, they tend to be made from steel framework, but this can cause other issues relating to thermal loss.
This is due to the connection points being of high conductivity, allowing thermal bridging to occur and therefore, the movement of energy to transfer more easily.
With this being said, the internal temperature can fluctuate with the cool air escaping out of the building and vice versa with external air being able to enter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Heat management is vital in data centers to ensure that the servers don’t overheat and instead maintain an optimal performance. It is especially important in today’s digital environment that cooling systems are in place, as the demand on servers is at an all time high with the rise of AI.
Data centers must comply with standards as set by ASHRAE. This authority dictates that these facilities must maintain an internal temperature between 64.4ºF-80.6ºF.
Data centers must be designed to a high specification to support in controlling internal temperatures. Because data centers are susceptible to thermal bridging, causing fluctuations in the internal temperature, solutions must be drawn into plans to ensure the structure works towards continuous insulation. This will then avoid cooling systems from having to overwork and ensure that these facilities are as efficient as possible.
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