CFD Modeling of Data Centers

Abstract

This paper deals with the prediction of airflow and temperature distributions in data centers with the goal of achieving proper cooling of the computer equipment. The focus is on raised-floor data centers, but the material is equally applicable to other designs. First, the concept of a raised-floor data center is introduced and the cooling challenge is described. In this arrangement, cooling air is supplied through perforated tiles. The flow rates of the cooling air must meet the cooling requirements of the computer racks placed next to the tiles. These airflow rates are governed primarily by the pressure distribution under the raised floor. Thus, the key to modifying the flow rates is to influence the flow field in the under-floor plenum. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) studies are presented to provide insight into various factors affecting the airflow distribution and the corresponding cooling and to explore various methods for controlling the airflow distribution. Then attention is turned to the above-floor space, where the focus is on preventing the hot air from entering the inlets of computer servers. Different strategies for achieving this prevention are considered. CFD modeling is ideal for understanding the behavior of these strategies and for determining their effectiveness. Some recent studies in these areas are summarized.