Data center operations require effective cooling solutions to redirect the heat that servers generate. Without these solutions, significant heat levels can shorten equipment lifespans, lead to shutdowns and downtime, compromise overall performance, and boost energy expenses.
Below are several airflow management tips and best practices for maximizing server rack airflow and efficiency in data center facilities.
Properly Install Servers
One of the first important steps to take for data center cooling optimization is directing airflow with the right equipment placement. Server orientation is critical in determining how cool air flows, with the ideal positioning directing air through the server racks for internal cooling and expelling heated air into the hot aisle.
If the equipment is installed backwards, the fans will draw in hot air instead of cool air, negatively impacting heat exchange. The hot air would also travel into the cold aisle, where it could transfer to other equipment and potentially cause even more damage to surrounding equipment.
Use Blanking Panels
Another means of AI data center cooling optimization is to install blanking panels, which help mitigate the risk of recirculating hot air across servers. Place these across empty rack units with rack side panels along server cabinets. Together with proper server installation, these measures serve to effectively channel hot air away from servers.
Keep Aisles Clear
Remove all debris from hot and cold server aisles to prevent the obstruction of airflow. Simply leaving items like tools and boxes on the floor of a server room could keep cold air from reaching servers and lead to overheating. One potential cause would be the blockage of perforated floor tiles that force cool air from the ground up. Additionally, cables could obstruct aisles, making effective cable management equally crucial.
Ensure Proper Room Ventilation
You must also ensure that the server room as a whole benefits from proper ventilation.
Key considerations here include:
- Hot and cold aisle configuration. Align racks alternatively along aisles to keep hot and cold airflow separate as it travels between the server aisles.
- Install raised floors and ceiling vents. Properly ventilated ceilings with raised floors further improve air circulation and overall cooling.
- Server or computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units. These specially designed systems can facilitate consistent temperature control to supplement other installations.
Use Effective Cooling Systems
Certain types of cooling systems will also help with temperature control, including rack-mounted and in-row cooling units. While rack-mounted equipment uses direct cooling for particular racks in need of it, in-row systems sit between racks for more efficient cooling throughout the server room.
Contact Pelonis Technologies for Data Center Cooling Solutions
When in need of data center cooling fans for your operations, turn to Pelonis Technologies. Our solutions operate with reduced horsepower compared to other fans on the market while consistently optimizing performance. To achieve the desired results with every installation, we have developed cooling fans with backward curves to optimize efficiency and rugged, durable construction to maximize longevity and reliability. We offer both standard and custom models and can fully tailor designs to your application requirements.
Contact us today to connect with one of our experts with any questions or concerns, or request a quote for a standard or custom cooling fan solution for your facility.
