INTRODUCTION

In this new digital era, managing data centers is a fundamental task in the processes of implementation and digital transformation of companies.

It is essential to take great care of the investment in ICT. In this delicate task, the refrigeration of data centers plays a significant role.

WHAT IS A DATA CENTER?

Let’s start with the basics. A Data Processing Center (also known as an Internet Data Center) is the physical location where enormous computers are housed, storing data that circulates over the network and to which we have access with just a few clicks.

There, all the electrical equipment, networks, systems, and cabling necessary to safeguard the data and services of companies are protected from external interference and follow strict security protocols.

HOW TO ACHIEVE CPD REFRIGERATION?

Data centers operate continuously, consuming a large amount of energy every minute. The risk of high temperatures and overheating is real and must be taken into account.

Therefore, companies implement systems for the refrigeration of data centers, allowing for their care and maintenance. The idea is to extend the lifespan of these data centers and, above all, to ensure the proper housing of user data.

– Refrigeration through air conditioning or fans is the most widely used and adopted solution by companies. This involves the installation of specialized air conditioning units that provide optimal climate control. It can be done through the floor or the ceiling. The goal is to create powerful airflows that cool the machines and prevent overheating. Fans create air corridors. This method is designed by specialized engineers who analyze the site, measure air currents, and establish the exact temperature that the room should maintain. It is a system used by large companies like Google, famous for its “hot aisle” method.

– Water cooling is a very commonly used alternative that offers excellent performance for companies, although it is a somewhat more expensive method as it is more sophisticated and modern. There are two basic methods with multiple variations: on one hand, there are liquid coolers with scroll compressors, operating as dry coolers, which are used in more industrial contexts (large-scale data centers), and on the other hand, we have water coolers with cooling towers. Experts in the field of information technology often prefer this method as they believe it improves the efficiency of computers and enhances data flow quickly and effectively.

– Carbon cooling is an optimal solution for the medium and long term. We are talking about a refrigerant gas that is environmentally friendly, odorless, economically viable, and has great cooling capacity. It primarily uses a cascade system, specially designed to cool while saving energy and costs. It is ideal for small but stable data centers. With CO2, we will promote a longer lifecycle for our equipment.

These are the main refrigeration methods currently in use, the most common, although electrical engineering is developing alternative methods that are gaining ground, such as panel cooling, which is undoubtedly a more sustainable and innovative solution.

In any case, refrigeration is an essential activity for storing and protecting the data of companies and entities worldwide. Investing in it is investing in our security.