CFD Modeling... more data is always cool

In order to analyze the airflow in data centers, and maximize cooling capacity, Technology Connection offers two different types of CFD Modeling studies — "below-floor CFD Modeling" and "above-floor CFD Modeling".

Below-floor CFD Modeling in Data Centers

Using below-floor CFD modeling, we monitor and track the air in a data center as it travels through the sub floor and up through the perforated tiles. This allows the monitoring of the static pressure, air velocity, and obstructions in the sub floor.

below-floor CFD modeling/thermal mapping monitors:

1. Static Pressure
2. Sub Floor Velocity
3. Sub Floor Obstructions
4. CFM Balancing
5. Plumes through Perforated Tiles

An image of the sub floor velocity provided through a below-floor CFD model. This image shows the low pressure and unbalanced airflow in the sub floor.

Above-floor CFD Modeling in Data Centers

Using above-floor CFD modeling, we monitor and view the entire life cycle of the airflow through the data center. We track the air from the point at which it leaves the computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit into the sub floor, as it travels from the sub floor through the perforated tiles into the ambient room, and as the air travels through the server racks and back to the CRAC unit.

above-floor Thermal Mapping key features:

1. CRAC Failures
2. Critical equipment placement
3. Room design
4. Thermal imaging
5. Equipment placement with addition of servers/racks
6. Placement of additional CRAC units
7. Disaster recovery planning
8. Blade servers vs. rack mounted servers