Client success story

Salute’s CFD Enabled Data Cooling System Upgrade

A leading global provider of IT infrastructure and services, was planning to upgrade the cooling system in one of its data centres. They wanted to ensure that the new system would be able to meet its needs, even in the most challenging conditions. Salute helped to ensure reliable data centre cooling with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

About the project

A leading global provider of IT infrastructure and services, was planning to upgrade the cooling system in one of its data centres. They wanted to ensure that the new system would be able to meet its needs, even in the most challenging conditions.

To achieve this, they engaged with Salute, a leading provider of data centre design and consulting services. Salute used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to model the new cooling system and predict its performance under a variety of scenarios.

CFD analysis is a computer simulation technique that is used to model and analyse fluid flows. It is a powerful tool that can be used to optimise the design of complex systems, such as data centre cooling systems.

  • Salute used CFD analysis to simulate the new cooling system under the following conditions:
  • Full IT load
  • Normal operation
  • Failure conditions
  • Different wind condition


The CFD analysis results showed that the new cooling system would meet their requirements in all of the simulated scenarios. Meaning that the new system would be able to operate efficiently and reliably, even in the most challenging conditions.

CHALLENGES

  • High density environment: The data hall aimed for a maximum load of 1250kW within a confined slab-to-slab height of 3.25 meters. Managing this dense configuration posed challenges in maintaining ideal rack temperatures and preventing hot air recirculation.
  • Limited cooling information: Initial design details included information on rack layout and density but lacked specifics on fan wall unit positioning and control strategies.
  • Anticipating potential failures: Accounting for equipment failures was crucial to ensure the data hall’s resilience and reliability.

SERVICES DELIVERED & TYPE OF WORK

The CFD analysis results showed that the new cooling design would be:

Able to maintain a safe and comfortable temperature for the IT equipment, even at full IT load

Resilient to a variety of failures, such as pump failures and condenser failures

Operate efficiently and effectively under different wind conditions

Potential cost savings.

BENEFITS

The CFD analysis provided a number of benefits, including:

Increased confidence in the new cooling design.

Reduced risk of any failures.

Improved performance and efficiency.

Potential cost savings.

Salute's CFD analysis expertise was invaluable in helping us to design and implement a new cooling system that meets our needs and delivers the performance we require. The analysis helped us to validate the design and identify opportunities for improvement and the project has helped to secure a longer-term relationship between us and Salute.
Project Manager
IT Infrastructure and services provider

Results

By leveraging our in-house CFD expertise, combined with advanced cooling controls, we were able to accurately model, simulate various scenarios and expertly analyse the results to help achieve the client’s high-density cooling goals with complete confidence.

This demonstrates the power of Salute’s unique blend of in-house, offering invaluable insights that can guide you whether you’re building a new data centre from scratch or optimising an existing one. With Salute, you can create a reliable, efficient, and high-performing environment for your critical IT equipment, maximizing its lifespan and optimising your data centre’s overall performance.

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Steve Lorimer

VP, Professional Services - EMEA