A data centre is often described as ‘the brain of a company’; a facility used to store all critical processes and networked computer systems which organise, process, store and disseminate large amounts of data.
As the equipment in a data centre uses lots of electricity, heat is left behind as a waste product. A data centre is often located in an enclosed facility, so the heat produced has no way to escape. Consequently, this leads to increased heat which could potentially destroy servers and the data storage.
Removing the Heat
Keeping a data centre cool is one of the most important factors to think about. A data centre can operate at maximum efficiency if there is an effective and reliable cooling system installed. In the UK, almost eight out of ten data centres do not meet the thermal guidelines and regulations for data processing environments. This presents the data centre to many problematic risks, including loss of data and failure.
There are many approaches when it comes to keeping a data centre cool, allowing for continuous temperatures to keep equipment running. The way a data centre is designed in terms of layout can have a significant impact upon humidity levels, as well as installing a cooling system:
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning systems mainly consist of an evaporator, compressor, and condenser. Warmer air is taken in and passed over the evaporator coils where cold liquid refrigerant in the coils absorbs the heat from the air. Cool air is then filtered through the system and into the room.
Air conditioning systems can be placed on the ceiling or floor, wherever is more suited to the data centre design to maintain a constant temperature for reliable functioning.
Air Cooling
Air cooling systems dissipate heat. Cool air is taken in from the outside and passed over the equipment, providing increased air flow. Evaporative cooling systems rely on a number of factors such as pressure, temperature, and rate of flow of air. If the right conditions are met, then the system is 100% efficient, providing a cost-efficient system maintaining the internal environment of a data centre.
With a range of options available for cooling data centres, a decision needs to be made on the most appropriate one in terms of functionality and size. As a data centre operates 24/7, a reliable, energy efficient and cost-effective cooling system would be best.
Are you needing an air conditioning system for a data centre or similar system – or another type of business? Heritage Heating & Cooling provides a range of air conditioning appliances that may suit your needs. Get in touch with us today and we will be more than happy to answer your queries.