Actionable strategies for data center cooling efficiency and sustainability 

Data centers consume as much as 3% of the world’s energy. With 40% of that energy usage coming from cooling systems, HVAC OEM panel builders play a vital role in helping data center operators keep energy consumption in check. Motor control systems designed for the unique needs of data center cooling can help. 

In a data-driven world, data centers are at the core of the economy. Currently, they consume as much as 3% of the world’s energy. As the digital transformation revolution accelerates and previously disconnected regions of the world come online, the expansion of data centers across the globe is inevitable. Energy efficiency has become a priority for data centers for both sustainability and economic reasons. 

With so much of the focus on increasing computing power, it can be surprising to learn that cooling systems can require more energy than computing assets. At a time when data centers are looking to reduce costs and lower their carbon footprint, the energy consumed by cooling systems must not be overlooked.  

From fans to pumps and compressors, there are many components and systems that contribute to cooling center energy efficiency. In this article, we look at how the advancements being made in motor control systems contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability. 

Softstarters provide hard returns 

Softstarters contribute to energy efficiency by controlling the acceleration of an electric motor, which in turn reduces the electrical load and mechanical stress on the motor and equipment during start-up. This gentle acceleration minimizes the inrush current and diminishes the instantaneous torque, leading to a more efficient use of power and extending the lifespan of system components. For cooling systems in data centers, where fans, pumps, and compressors are frequently started and stopped, applying softstarters can significantly reduce energy consumption and wear, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability. 

Advanced softstarters, such as the PSTX from ABB, allow operators to set parameters, such as initial start-up voltage, ramp-up time, and the current limit. By adjusting the cooling system’s performance to the precise needs of the data center at any given time, energy wastage is minimized, contributing to a lower Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio—a key metric for assessing the energy efficiency of a data center. These softstarters also frequently offer protective features to prevent overloads and monitor the motor’s operational conditions. 

Compact components improve cooling efficiency  

Cooling systems typically take up less space than the equipment used for actual computing power. However, cooling systems must be strategically placed to ensure proper functioning. Compact cooling system components compete less for floor space with computing assets and are easier to place for maximum energy efficiency.  

ABB’s components for motor control systems stand out in the industry for their compact design, offering a significant space-saving advantage. These components are engineered for efficiency and specifically tailored to optimize the use of space within electrical enclosures and control panels. This streamlined design facilitates easier installation and maintenance while enabling engineers and designers to create more compact and efficient control systems.  

AF contactors, certified for the new chiller and HVAC A2L certification, control fan and pump motors, reduce chiller system failure and prevent potential data center downtime. ABB uses electronically controlled coils in its AF contactors, offering several advantages over conventional alternatives: reduced power consumption with premium efficiency coils, wider operational voltage ranges, improved performance stability across different voltages and most importantly market leading closing speeds.  

The new A2L gas inside of chiller systems make the closing speed of the contactor one of the most critical specifications to consider. New regulations require A2L refrigerant to be used instead of the previous inert A2 coolant. A2L refrigerant is energy efficient and has a lower GWP (global warming potential) but is up to 6 times more flammable. Fast closing shuts down the system quickly and safely to help prevent a possible fire in the event of a coolant leak. Lastly, the option of push-in terminals on AF contactors not only makes the equipment easier to install, but also saves space, thereby increasing cooling efficiency even further.    

Improving insights into energy usage 

As the saying goes, “What gets measured gets managed.” Using components that provide visibility into the health of the power distribution system and equipment is vital to improving energy efficiency and implementing other cost-saving strategies like condition-based maintenance. 

Larger commercial data centers often have custom power monitoring systems that deliver data to analytical systems programmed to their unique specifications. These systems may be out of reach for mid-tier and smaller data center operations. However, choosing smart components with built-in intelligence can allow the operator to connect to commercially available energy management platforms, such as Ability^TM by ABB, or other platforms the organization may already use.  

Intelligent power components, like the TruOne ATS, Tmax XT, and PSTX softstarter, have excellent power monitoring capabilities, able to measure voltage, current, power, as well as more advanced measurements such as energy (non-revenue metering), harmonics, and power quality / power factor.  

Universal Motor Controllers (UMC) can help data center operators enhance energy efficiency in cooling systems by providing intelligent motor protection and control functions, which allow motors to operate more efficiently and with better management of energy use. ABB’s UMC100.3 model, for instance, provides detailed operational, diagnostic, and service data in real time. This feature facilitates predictive maintenance, which can help pre-emptively address issues that might lead to higher energy consumption or inefficient operation.  

Once again, combined components like the UMC and TrueOne^TM, help save space in data center cooling applications for improved energy efficiency. Because these systems combine multiple motor control functions in one box, installation is faster, and less enclosure space is required.  

Preparing for an energy-efficient, data-driven future 

Many have tried to predict the power needs of the future. But with so many changes on the horizon – smart buildings, self-driving vehicles, and increased urbanization to name a few – it is difficult to predict how much power will be required in 50 years, let alone the next 10. What we can be reasonably sure of is that data centers will be at the core of tomorrow’s economy, and innovations designed to improve energy efficiency will be more important than ever. ABB is committed to being at the forefront of innovation, providing best-in-class products and solutions while developing new technologies that will allow us to deliver even smaller, more cost-effective, and efficient motor control components for our OEM customers and theirs. 

See related blog post “Demystifying the UL 1008 testing requirements and ATS ratings”.

ABB Electrification Business