The future of data center cooling is here, and it’s submerged. Immersion cooling is rapidly becoming the preferred cooling method for high-powered, high-density computing. Learn more about immersion cooling technology. It offers unparalleled energy efficiency, significantly reduces operating expenses (OPEX), and allows for much higher server density. For companies handling critical workloads and prioritizing sustainability, it’s a game-changer.

But is your data center ready to take the plunge?

Here’s a checklist to help you determine if your data center is ready for immersion cooling, along with some explanatory notes:

1. Power Infrastructure:
   • □   Sufficient Power Density:
     • Immersion cooling often enables higher server densities. Can your power infrastructure support the increased power load per rack or footprint area? Higher power density means more kilowatts per rack or square foot.
   • □  Reliable Power Supply:
     • Is your power supply stable and redundant? Immersion cooling systems, while efficient, still require a consistent power source. Any power issues could be amplified with high-density computing.
   • □  Electrical Upgrades:
     • Are you prepared for potential electrical upgrades, such as new circuit breakers or wiring, to accommodate the higher power demands? In addition to the power required for your IT, immersion cooling systems may require different electrical configurations.
2. Cooling Infrastructure:
   • □  Space for Immersion Tanks:
     • Do you have sufficient floor space to install immersion tanks and associated equipment? Consider tank size, layout, and maintenance access.
   • □  Heat Rejection System:
     • Do you have a suitable heat rejection system, such as a dry cooler or water loop, to dissipate the heat from the dielectric fluid? Immersion cooling moves heat very efficiently, but you still need to remove it from the building via a water loop and heat rejection system.
   • □  Fluid Handling and Storage:
     • Do you have a designated area for storing and handling dielectric fluid, including top-up, draining, and disposal? While single-phase immersion cooling fluids do not evaporate and are designed to last the lifespan of your immersion cooling system, fluid levels may need to be adjusted as IT equipment is added or removed from the tanks. Proper fluid management is essential for safety and efficiency.
   • □  Leak Detection and Containment:
     • Are you prepared with leak detection systems and containment measures to address potential fluid spills? While dielectric fluids are generally safe, proper containment is still needed. Note that many immersion cooling systems, including GRC’s ICEraQ SX, include integrated fluid containment systems for added safety.
   • □  Existing Air-Cooling Removal:
     • Are you prepared to remove or repurpose existing air-cooling infrastructure? Despite the long-term savings, this can be a large project.
3. IT Infrastructure:
   • □  Server Compatibility:
     • Are your servers compatible with immersion cooling systems? Not all servers are designed for immersion, and existing air-cooled IT equipment will need to be converted for use in immersion.
   • □  Network Infrastructure:
     • Can your network infrastructure handle the increased data throughput and potential changes in server layout? High-density computing can strain network resources.
   • □  IT Staff Training:
     • Are your IT staff trained to handle immersion cooling systems, including maintenance, fluid management, and troubleshooting? While maintenance of immersion cooled IT and immersion cooling systems isn’t especially challenging, immersion cooling service is different from servicing air-cooled IT and requires specialized knowledge.
   • □  Planned Server Upgrades:
     • Are your planned server upgrades designed to be used within an immersion cooling system? Planning future hardware purchases with Immersion Cooling in mind can save money.
4. Environmental Considerations:
   • □  Sustainability Goals:
     • Does immersion cooling align with your organization’s sustainability goals? Immersion cooling can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint.
   • □  Heat Reuse Potential:
     • Can you utilize the waste heat from the immersion cooling system for other purposes, such as building heating or hot water? Heat reuse can further improve energy efficiency.
   • □  Local Regulations:
     • Are you aware of any local regulations or environmental restrictions related to dielectric fluid usage and disposal? While immersion cooling systems and fluids are safe and environmentally friendly, compliance with regulations is essential.
5. Financial and Operational Considerations:
   • □  TCO Analysis:
     • Have you conducted a thorough Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis to assess the long-term cost benefits of Immersion Cooling? Consider CAPEX, OPEX, and potential ROI.
   • □  Downtime Planning:
     • Have you planned for potential downtime during the transition to Immersion Cooling? Careful planning is crucial to minimize disruption.
   • □  Vendor Selection:
     • Have you selected a reputable vendor with experience in Immersion Cooling systems? Specifically, are you using GRC’s immersion cooling solutions?

If you can answer “yes” to most of these questions, your data center is likely well-positioned with immersion cooling and it’s time to take it to the next level by getting a TCO calculation done.

However, if your answer to any of these questions is “no”, consult GRC today and transform your data center with GRC’s advanced immersion cooling solutions personalized for your needs to achieve unparalleled efficiency and sustainability.