Data centre operators are currently navigating a complex landscape marked by the increasing coexistence of traditional IT applications and high-density computing applications necessitated by artificial intelligence (AI). In response to this evolving environment, Vertiv and Compass Datacentres have developed a pioneering solution aimed at meeting the diverse cooling requirements of modern data centres.
The innovative solution, named the Vertiv CoolPhase Flex, combines both air and liquid cooling technologies into a single system. The collaboration between Vertiv, a recognised global provider of vital digital infrastructure, and Compass Datacentres, which designs and operates data centre campuses for leading technology firms, is set to revolutionise operations by facilitating the flexible deployment of cooling technologies. The initial units are scheduled to be deployed in a Compass facility in the first quarter of 2025 as part of a broader multi-year supply arrangement, reportedly worth billions.
Chris Crosby, CEO of Compass, articulated the needs of the market, stating, “Our customers are looking for fast, practical and energy-efficient ways to introduce liquid cooling to support AI and other high-density applications, but want the flexibility to leverage air-cooling and support mixed loads in those same facilities.” He underscored the significance of the partnership with Vertiv in bringing this vision to fruition, pointing out that the Vertiv CoolPhase Flex provides “a level of flexibility that is unparalleled in the marketplace.”
The Vertiv CoolPhase Flex marks an advancement from the previously established Vertiv Liebert DSE Packaged System, integrating liquid cooling capabilities with refrigerant-based air cooling. This allows data centre customers to initially use the system as a direct expansion cooling solution with integrated economisation for reliable air cooling. Once high-density computing applications are deployed, the liquid cooling functionality can be engaged quickly and conveniently.
Giordano (Gio) Albertazzi, CEO of Vertiv, highlighted the collaborative nature of this initiative, indicating that AI is reshaping not only data centre operations but also the interactions between various industry stakeholders. “Data centre operators, customers, chip manufacturers, infrastructure providers, utility companies and others must work together to innovate and reduce barriers to AI adoption,” he noted, further commending the collaborative efforts that brought the Vertiv CoolPhase Flex to market.
There are several key benefits associated with the Vertiv CoolPhase Flex. The system is designed for faster and simpler deployment of high-density computing by minimising the complexities traditionally linked with liquid cooling adoption. This streamlined approach aims to reduce the overall time to deployment, as well as associated costs and potential operational downtime.
In terms of efficiency, the CoolPhase Flex employs pumped refrigerant economization (PRE) technology to automatically switch to free cooling conditions whenever suitable external temperatures arise. Consequently, when IT demands shift towards liquid cooling, the system can readily adapt for liquid fluid distribution and heat removal.
Moreover, the self-contained design of the CoolPhase Flex is positioned outside of the data centre, thereby conserving valuable internal space—a crucial element in modern data centre design. The modular layout of Compass’ data centres ensures that customers can implement upgrades with minimal disruption and without incurring high costs typically associated with significant rebuilding or retrofitting activities.
To further enhance operational efficiency, Compass has also integrated the Vertiv Next Predict service platform into their services. This platform employs predictive analytics to transition maintenance from a reactive to a proactive approach, allowing for timely interventions based on historical and operational data. Crosby remarked, “A predictive tool that lets us know when equipment needs maintenance ahead of time as opposed to waiting until there is a potential availability issue is just a massive game changer for cooling equipment.”
The collaboration between Vertiv and Compass Datacentres signals a noteworthy advancement in data centre technology, aimed at ensuring that facilities remain adaptable and efficient in the face of rapid technological changes driven by AI and increasing computing demands.
Source: Noah Wire Services