Data centre cooling - Revision history

Designing Buildings at 07:04, 25 November 2020

2020-11-25T07:04:14Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:04, 25 November 2020
Line 1:		Line 1:
−	This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User:BSRIA\|BSRIA]].
−
−	~~-----~~
	BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.		BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.

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	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.		Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.
		+
		+	-----
		+	This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User:BSRIA\|BSRIA]].

	= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =		= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =
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	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].		* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].

−	[[Category:~~Design~~]] [[Category:~~Products_/_components~~]] [[Category:~~DCN_Product_Knowledge~~]]	+	[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Editor at 16:38, 16 April 2020

2020-04-16T16:38:46Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:38, 16 April 2020
Line 69:		Line 69:
	* Building services.		* Building services.
	* Chiller unit.		* Chiller unit.
		+	* Colocation centre.
	* Convergence and big data, The impact on structured cabling.		* Convergence and big data, The impact on structured cabling.
	* Cooling.		* Cooling.
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	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].		* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].

−	[[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]	+	[[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]]

Designing Buildings at 16:25, 16 November 2019

2019-11-16T16:25:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:25, 16 November 2019
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	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.		Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.

−	~~= Find out more =~~	+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =
−		+
−	=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===	+

	* Air conditioning.		* Air conditioning.
		+	* BREEAM Data Centres Annex Pilot.
	* BSRIA.		* BSRIA.
	* BSRIA articles.		* BSRIA articles.
Line 78:		Line 77:
	* Uninterruptible power supply.		* Uninterruptible power supply.

−	=== External references ===	+	= External references =

	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].		* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].

	[[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]		[[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Editor at 11:05, 4 May 2017

2017-05-04T11:05:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:05, 4 May 2017
Line 75:		Line 75:
	* Mechanical ventilation.		* Mechanical ventilation.
	* Temperature.		* Temperature.
		+	* Top 10 tips for efficient data centre management.
	* Uninterruptible power supply.		* Uninterruptible power supply.

Designing Buildings at 14:16, 27 September 2016

2016-09-27T14:16:46Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:16, 27 September 2016
Line 66:		Line 66:
	* Air conditioning.		* Air conditioning.
	* BSRIA.		* BSRIA.
		+	* BSRIA articles.
	* Building management system.		* Building management system.
	* Building services.		* Building services.
	* Chiller unit.		* Chiller unit.
		+	* Convergence and big data, The impact on structured cabling.
	* Cooling.		* Cooling.
		+	* Large hyper data centres demand for precision cooling.
	* Mechanical ventilation.		* Mechanical ventilation.
	* Temperature.		* Temperature.

BSRIA at 09:32, 10 December 2015

2015-12-10T09:32:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:32, 10 December 2015
Line 1:		Line 1:
		+	This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User:BSRIA\|BSRIA]].

−	~~This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information~~-~~membership/bookshop/publication/delta~~-t-~~january~~-~~2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by~~ -~~-[[User%3ABSRIA\|BSRIA]].~~	+	-----
−		+	BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.
−	~~----~~	+
−		+
−	BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.~~<br/>~~	+

	= Optimising cooling =		= Optimising cooling =

−	Q. In what ways can cooling systems for data centres be optimised to achieve the best performance?~~<br/>~~	+	Q. In what ways can cooling systems for data centres be optimised to achieve the best performance?

	Optimisation of data centre cooling can be viewed on the micro (component) level but also on the macro level to ensure that the data centre operates efficiently, reliably and effectively.		Optimisation of data centre cooling can be viewed on the micro (component) level but also on the macro level to ensure that the data centre operates efficiently, reliably and effectively.

−	Measurement schemes, such as Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), enable operators to move towards optimal performance. Another driver for efficient operation can be the knock-on benefits to company profitability. Alternatively, as most data centre sites will have a limit of maximum available electrical power, optimisation will allow the operator to maximise the efficiency of a system while maintaining IT functions.~~<br/>~~	+	Measurement schemes, such as Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), enable operators to move towards optimal performance. Another driver for efficient operation can be the knock-on benefits to company profitability. Alternatively, as most data centre sites will have a limit of maximum available electrical power, optimisation will allow the operator to maximise the efficiency of a system while maintaining IT functions.

	The principles of data centre cooling are straightforward. The main challenges are the implementation of the design and the operation of the data centre cooling and IT equipment. The quality and quantity of cooling are important. It calls for attention to detail and good understanding, co-ordination and management at the micro and macro levels.		The principles of data centre cooling are straightforward. The main challenges are the implementation of the design and the operation of the data centre cooling and IT equipment. The quality and quantity of cooling are important. It calls for attention to detail and good understanding, co-ordination and management at the micro and macro levels.
Line 20:		Line 18:
	Q. To minimise the number of floor grilles we are using a chessboard floor pattern. We have a problem with cooling. Why?		Q. To minimise the number of floor grilles we are using a chessboard floor pattern. We have a problem with cooling. Why?

−	Pictured below is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.~~<br/>~~	+	Pictured below is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.

−	[[File:~~Thermal image of floor grilles in data centre~~.jpg\|~~RTENOTITLE~~]]	+	[[File:Thermal_image_of_floor_grilles_in_data_centre.jpg\|link=File:Thermal_image_of_floor_grilles_in_data_centre.jpg]]

	Image: Infrared image showing two sections of a cold aisle in a data centre.		Image: Infrared image showing two sections of a cold aisle in a data centre.

−	The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non-uniform distribution of cold air.~~<br/>~~	+	The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non-uniform distribution of cold air.

−	The hot air is re-circulating and coming out the front of the cabinet at low level, while some of the cold air is by-passing the front of the cabinet and punching through the hot air at high level to cool the ceiling.~~<br/>~~	+	The hot air is re-circulating and coming out the front of the cabinet at low level, while some of the cold air is by-passing the front of the cabinet and punching through the hot air at high level to cool the ceiling.

	This graphically answers the question that if you use a chessboard pattern for the floor grilles, the effectiveness of the cooling is compromised. More generally, uniformity in cooling requires uniformity in air distribution.		This graphically answers the question that if you use a chessboard pattern for the floor grilles, the effectiveness of the cooling is compromised. More generally, uniformity in cooling requires uniformity in air distribution.
Line 41:		Line 39:

	BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT] provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are:		BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT] provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are:
−	*Think of warm air as a pollutant	+
−	*Don’t cut holes in the floor	+	* Think of warm air as a pollutant
−	*Don’t over- promise or over-demand.	+	* Don’t cut holes in the floor
		+	* Don’t over- promise or over-demand.

	Assistance may be required to test prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, of for on-site trouble-shooting services.		Assistance may be required to test prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, of for on-site trouble-shooting services.
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	Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?		Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?

−	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.~~<br/>~~	+	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.

−	= Find out more~~<br/>~~ =	+	= Find out more =

−	=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki~~<br/>~~ ===	+	=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===
−	*Air conditioning.	+
−	*BSRIA.	+	* Air conditioning.
−	*Building management system.	+	* BSRIA.
−	*Building services.	+	* Building management system.
−	*Chiller unit.	+	* Building services.
−	*Cooling.~~<br/>~~	+	* Chiller unit.
−	*Mechanical ventilation.	+	* Cooling.
−	*Temperature.	+	* Mechanical ventilation.
−	*Uninterruptible power supply.	+	* Temperature.
		+	* Uninterruptible power supply.

	=== External references ===		=== External references ===
−	*BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].

−	[[Category:Design]]	+	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].
−	[[Category:Products_/_components]]	+
		+	[[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

BSRIA at 08:09, 30 November 2014

2014-11-30T08:09:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:09, 30 November 2014
Line 59:		Line 59:
	Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?		Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?

−	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an ~~uninteruptible~~ power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.<br/>	+	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninterruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.<br/>

	= Find out more<br/> =		= Find out more<br/> =
Line 72:		Line 72:
	*Mechanical ventilation.		*Mechanical ventilation.
	*Temperature.		*Temperature.
−	*~~Uninteruptible~~ power supply.	+	*Uninterruptible power supply.

	=== External references ===		=== External references ===

BSRIA at 08:08, 30 November 2014

2014-11-30T08:08:19Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:08, 30 November 2014
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	Pictured below is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.<br/>		Pictured below is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.<br/>

−	[[File:Thermal image of floor grilles in data centre.jpg]]Image: Infrared image showing two sections of a cold aisle in a data centre.	+	[[File:Thermal image of floor grilles in data centre.jpg\|RTENOTITLE]]
		+
		+	Image: Infrared image showing two sections of a cold aisle in a data centre.

	The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non-uniform distribution of cold air.<br/>		The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non-uniform distribution of cold air.<br/>
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	The precise approach taken will depend on whether a step-change in performance has been noted, newly-installed equipment is not being cooled as expected, a non-resilient response to a computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit or chiller unit failure has occurred, or there is a gradual fall in performance. Perhaps the operator wishes to take a proactive approach to performance and efficiency levels.		The precise approach taken will depend on whether a step-change in performance has been noted, newly-installed equipment is not being cooled as expected, a non-resilient response to a computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit or chiller unit failure has occurred, or there is a gradual fall in performance. Perhaps the operator wishes to take a proactive approach to performance and efficiency levels.

−	BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT] provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are:	+	BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT] provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are:
	*Think of warm air as a pollutant		*Think of warm air as a pollutant
	*Don’t cut holes in the floor		*Don’t cut holes in the floor
−	*Don’t over- promise or over-demand.	+	*Don’t over- promise or over-demand.

	Assistance may be required to test prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, of for on-site trouble-shooting services.		Assistance may be required to test prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, of for on-site trouble-shooting services.
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	The performance of a data centre depends on supplying the correct cooling to all the installed equipment. A range of acceptable conditions for the cooling supply will be set for the commissioning tests to keep the equipment running efficiently without interruption. Supply conditions need to be measured to establish if they are correct (particularly temperature and humidity), and validated for all foreseeable eventualities, such as failure modes, at full and part-load operation.		The performance of a data centre depends on supplying the correct cooling to all the installed equipment. A range of acceptable conditions for the cooling supply will be set for the commissioning tests to keep the equipment running efficiently without interruption. Supply conditions need to be measured to establish if they are correct (particularly temperature and humidity), and validated for all foreseeable eventualities, such as failure modes, at full and part-load operation.

−	A versatile testing system is needed to validate the large range of layouts of data centres and the different types of installed cabinets used. An independent validation check of the BMS and associated control and monitoring strategy allows the operator to go into the operational phase with greater confidence.	+	A versatile testing system is needed to validate the large range of layouts of data centres and the different types of installed cabinets used. An independent validation check of the building management system (BMS) and associated control and monitoring strategy allows the operator to go into the operational phase with greater confidence.

	= Key temperatures =		= Key temperatures =
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	Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?		Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?

−	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninteruptible ~~electrical~~ power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.<br/>	+	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninteruptible power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.<br/>

	= Find out more<br/> =		= Find out more<br/> =
Line 64:		Line 66:
	*Air conditioning.		*Air conditioning.
	*BSRIA.		*BSRIA.
		+	*Building management system.
	*Building services.		*Building services.
	*Chiller unit.		*Chiller unit.
	*Cooling.<br/>		*Cooling.<br/>
	*Mechanical ventilation.		*Mechanical ventilation.
		+	*Temperature.
		+	*Uninteruptible power supply.

	=== External references ===		=== External references ===
−	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].	+	*BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].

	[[Category:Design]]		[[Category:Design]]
	[[Category:Products_/_components]]		[[Category:Products_/_components]]

BSRIA at 08:05, 30 November 2014

2014-11-30T08:05:14Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:05, 30 November 2014
Line 1:		Line 1:

−	This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User~~:BSRIA~~\|BSRIA]].	+	This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User%3ABSRIA\|BSRIA]].

−	BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.	+	----
		+
		+	BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.<br/>

	= Optimising cooling =		= Optimising cooling =

−	Q. It what ways can cooling systems for data centres be optimised to achieve the best performance?	+	Q. In what ways can cooling systems for data centres be optimised to achieve the best performance?<br/>

	Optimisation of data centre cooling can be viewed on the micro (component) level but also on the macro level to ensure that the data centre operates efficiently, reliably and effectively.		Optimisation of data centre cooling can be viewed on the micro (component) level but also on the macro level to ensure that the data centre operates efficiently, reliably and effectively.

−	Measurement schemes, such as ~~the~~ Energy Efficiency Rating (EER),enable operators to move towards optimal performance. Another driver for efficient operation can be the knock-on benefits to company profitability. Alternatively, as most data centre sites will have a limit of maximum available electrical power, optimisation will allow the operator to maximise the efficiency of a system while maintaining IT functions.	+	Measurement schemes, such as Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), enable operators to move towards optimal performance. Another driver for efficient operation can be the knock-on benefits to company profitability. Alternatively, as most data centre sites will have a limit of maximum available electrical power, optimisation will allow the operator to maximise the efficiency of a system while maintaining IT functions.<br/>

	The principles of data centre cooling are straightforward. The main challenges are the implementation of the design and the operation of the data centre cooling and IT equipment. The quality and quantity of cooling are important. It calls for attention to detail and good understanding, co-ordination and management at the micro and macro levels.		The principles of data centre cooling are straightforward. The main challenges are the implementation of the design and the operation of the data centre cooling and IT equipment. The quality and quantity of cooling are important. It calls for attention to detail and good understanding, co-ordination and management at the micro and macro levels.
Line 18:		Line 20:
	Q. To minimise the number of floor grilles we are using a chessboard floor pattern. We have a problem with cooling. Why?		Q. To minimise the number of floor grilles we are using a chessboard floor pattern. We have a problem with cooling. Why?

−	Pictured ~~opposite~~ is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.	+	Pictured below is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.<br/>

−	~~The cabinets~~ in ~~the foreground show~~ a ~~uniform distribution of~~ cold ~~air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets~~ in ~~the background show~~ a ~~non- uniform distribution of cold air~~.	+	[[File:Thermal image of floor grilles in data centre.jpg]]Image: Infrared image showing two sections of a cold aisle in a data centre.

−	The hot air is re-circulating and coming out the front of the cabinet at low level, while some of the cold air is ~~bypassing~~ the front of the cabinet and punching through the hot air at high level to cool the ceiling.	+	The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non-uniform distribution of cold air.<br/>
		+
		+	The hot air is re-circulating and coming out the front of the cabinet at low level, while some of the cold air is by-passing the front of the cabinet and punching through the hot air at high level to cool the ceiling.<br/>

	This graphically answers the question that if you use a chessboard pattern for the floor grilles, the effectiveness of the cooling is compromised. More generally, uniformity in cooling requires uniformity in air distribution.		This graphically answers the question that if you use a chessboard pattern for the floor grilles, the effectiveness of the cooling is compromised. More generally, uniformity in cooling requires uniformity in air distribution.
Line 30:		Line 34:
	Q. How can you troubleshoot the operation of a data centre?		Q. How can you troubleshoot the operation of a data centre?

−	Troubleshooting the operation of a data centre requires a logical approach. This may appear a daunting task for a live data centre, but successful treatment can only ~~result~~ from a correct diagnosis.	+	Troubleshooting the operation of a data centre requires a logical approach. This may appear a daunting task for a live data centre, but successful treatment can only come from a correct diagnosis.

−	The precise approach taken will depend on whether a step-change in performance has been noted, newly- installed equipment is not being cooled as expected, a non-resilient response to a computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit or chiller failure has occurred, or there is a gradual fall in performance. Perhaps the operator wishes to take a proactive approach to performance and efficiency levels.	+	The precise approach taken will depend on whether a step-change in performance has been noted, newly-installed equipment is not being cooled as expected, a non-resilient response to a computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit or chiller unit failure has occurred, or there is a gradual fall in performance. Perhaps the operator wishes to take a proactive approach to performance and efficiency levels.

−	BSRIA’s BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are: ~~think~~ of warm air as a pollutant~~, don’t~~ cut holes in the floor~~, and don’t~~ over- promise or over-demand. ~~BSRIA can provide assistance by testing~~ prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, ~~and provide~~ on-site trouble-shooting services.	+	BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT] provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are:
		+	*Think of warm air as a pollutant
		+	*Don’t cut holes in the floor
		+	*Don’t over- promise or over-demand.
		+
		+	Assistance may be required to test prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, of for on-site trouble-shooting services.

	= Validating performance =		= Validating performance =
Line 48:		Line 57:
	Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?		Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?

−	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninteruptible electrical power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.	+	Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninteruptible electrical power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.<br/>
		+
		+	= Find out more<br/> =
		+
		+	=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki<br/> ===
		+	*Air conditioning.
		+	*BSRIA.
		+	*Building services.
		+	*Chiller unit.
		+	*Cooling.<br/>
		+	*Mechanical ventilation.
		+
		+	=== External references ===
		+	* BSRIA’s [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/cooling-solutions-for-it-a-guide-to-planning-design-and-operation/ BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT].
		+
		+	[[Category:Design]]
		+	[[Category:Products_/_components]]

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This article originally appeared in [https://www.bsria.co.uk/information-membership/bookshop/publication/delta-t-january-2011/ BSRIA’s Delta T magazine January 2011]. It has been posted here by --[[User:BSRIA|BSRIA]].

BSRIA’s head of computer and physical modelling, William Booth, provides the answers to technical questions on data centre cooling posed by BSRIA members.

= Optimising cooling =

Q. It what ways can cooling systems for data centres be optimised to achieve the best performance?

Optimisation of data centre cooling can be viewed on the micro (component) level but also on the macro level to ensure that the data centre operates efficiently, reliably and effectively.

Measurement schemes, such as the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER),enable operators to move towards optimal performance. Another driver for efficient operation can be the knock-on benefits to company profitability. Alternatively, as most data centre sites will have a limit of maximum available electrical power, optimisation will allow the operator to maximise the efficiency of a system while maintaining IT functions.

The principles of data centre cooling are straightforward. The main challenges are the implementation of the design and the operation of the data centre cooling and IT equipment. The quality and quantity of cooling are important. It calls for attention to detail and good understanding, co-ordination and management at the micro and macro levels.

= Floor grilles =

Q. To minimise the number of floor grilles we are using a chessboard floor pattern. We have a problem with cooling. Why?

Pictured opposite is an infrared image (warmer temperatures are red, cooler are blue) of two sections of the cold aisle in a data centre. In the foreground, the grilles are arranged in a continuous line across the front of the grilles. In the background, the grilles have been arranged in a chess board arrangement. This shows clearly the effect of the two different arrangements.

The cabinets in the foreground show a uniform distribution of cold air across the front with the hot air being kept at the top where it can be extracted. The cabinets in the background show a non- uniform distribution of cold air.

The hot air is re-circulating and coming out the front of the cabinet at low level, while some of the cold air is bypassing the front of the cabinet and punching through the hot air at high level to cool the ceiling.

This graphically answers the question that if you use a chessboard pattern for the floor grilles, the effectiveness of the cooling is compromised. More generally, uniformity in cooling requires uniformity in air distribution.

= Data centre operation =

Q. How can you troubleshoot the operation of a data centre?

Troubleshooting the operation of a data centre requires a logical approach. This may appear a daunting task for a live data centre, but successful treatment can only result from a correct diagnosis.

The precise approach taken will depend on whether a step-change in performance has been noted, newly- installed equipment is not being cooled as expected, a non-resilient response to a computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit or chiller failure has occurred, or there is a gradual fall in performance. Perhaps the operator wishes to take a proactive approach to performance and efficiency levels.

BSRIA’s BG 5/2003 Cooling Solutions for IT provides more guidance, but the three golden rules of thumb are: think of warm air as a pollutant, don’t cut holes in the floor, and don’t over- promise or over-demand. BSRIA can provide assistance by testing prototype cabinet systems, perform validation by testing mock-ups, and provide on-site trouble-shooting services.

= Validating performance =

Q. How can I validate performance at commissioning?

The performance of a data centre depends on supplying the correct cooling to all the installed equipment. A range of acceptable conditions for the cooling supply will be set for the commissioning tests to keep the equipment running efficiently without interruption. Supply conditions need to be measured to establish if they are correct (particularly temperature and humidity), and validated for all foreseeable eventualities, such as failure modes, at full and part-load operation.

A versatile testing system is needed to validate the large range of layouts of data centres and the different types of installed cabinets used. An independent validation check of the BMS and associated control and monitoring strategy allows the operator to go into the operational phase with greater confidence.

= Key temperatures =

Q. How and where can you measure the key temperatures in a data centre?

Maintaining an environment appropriate for the IT equipment, coupled with an uninteruptible electrical power supply within a secure space, are the primary purposes of a data centre. Whether for monitoring for compliance or control purposes, temperature measurements must be appropriate, accurate and averaged. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where readings are taken. This is important to know, as taking temperature readings in the wrong spot can lead down the wrong path, resulting in wasted time and money and potential damage to business-critical equipment.