Services
CFD analysis
Accurate simulation of airflow and temperature in the data hall — before anything is built.
Simulate, or don't simulate?
The main goal of data centre operators is to extend the life of their technology for as long as possible, at the lowest possible cost. Inside a data centre, operators and technical managers are pushed towards quick fixes to prevent dangerous hotspots, power failures or IT equipment failures.
Those quick fixes and repairs keep the data centre running, but they shorten its life. In practice, "quick fixes" can have unwanted effects on both the operation of the data centre and its health.
The key is to find out whether a planned change will help the data centre or not — before it is carried out. The only way to do that is the most accurate possible simulation of the environment in the data hall.
What CFD analysis is
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been in use since the early 20th century, and is best known as a tool for analysing airflow around cars and aircraft. As data centre cooling systems have grown sharply in complexity, CFD has become a useful tool for modelling airflow and analysing heat flows in data halls too.
The software needs information about the size, contents and layout of the data centre. From that it builds a mathematical model, and accurate conclusions can be drawn from it.
- Software
- 6SigmaRoom Lite
What we deliver
A model, an analysis, a report. Every output is the basis for a decision.
Accurate 3D model
- Detailed modelling of the building structure
- The space beneath the raised floor
- Placement and layout of IT equipment in racks
- Cooling systems
- Power supply to the data hall
- Other heat sources in the hall
CFD analysis
- 3D temperature distribution through any section of the space
- Air velocity from the floor perforations
- Airflow direction (streamlines)
- Pressure beneath the raised floor
Output report
- Summary of findings
- Recommendations for cooling and power
- A document that can be passed on
What it looks like
Outputs from real data hall analyses.
What you get out of it
Cooling decisions verified before anything costs money.
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Diagnosis
Identifying overheating spots — hotspots.
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Alternatives
Alternative cooling solutions or IT equipment configurations, compared for energy efficiency.
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Recommendations
Comprehensive recommendations for cooling, distribution and power, to reach the best energy efficiency.
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Perforations
Optimal placement of perforations in the raised floor.
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Failure scenarios
Simulation of standard operating states and emergency situations.
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Expansion
Simulation of the environment when the data centre is extended or expanded.