t cht lk exceed 60kW . Facilities operators are rethinking not just their cooling methods but also how to make the best use of their available space while preparing for increasing power demands .
t cht lk exceed 60kW . Facilities operators are rethinking not just their cooling methods but also how to make the best use of their available space while preparing for increasing power demands .
Traditional data centres were built with certain assumptions about power needs – typically around 5 – 8kW per rack . This led to innovations like aisle containment , designed to improve cooling in response to growing demands . However , as AI keeps pushing the limits , these outdated assumptions are no longer enough . HPC deployments now require facilities that can handle power outputs of up to 80kW per rack or even more .
We ’ re beginning to see a new wave of advanced data centres emerge that look very different – facilities designed from the ground up to meet
By optimising the size of racks , facilities can improve airflow , streamline power distribution and ultimately boost operational efficiency .
Evolving infrastructure for power demands
As power demands rise , the standard 1200mm deep racks are becoming outdated . To meet this increase , we ’ re likely to see a shift to 1400mm deep racks . This isn ’ t just about making things bigger ; it ’ s about maximising flexibility and capacity . Recent reports indicate that wider rack options – ranging from 800mm to 1000mm – are becoming more popular , providing standardised 52 Rack Units ( RU ) that help facilities scale more effectively .
This change in rack design is crucial because it directly affects how data centres can support the evolving demands of AI and HPC . By optimising the size of racks , facilities can improve airflow , streamline power distribution and ultimately boost operational efficiency .
Another big challenge is the issue of ‘ stranded space ’ in data centres . As facilities designed for traditional workloads try to adapt to new HPC infrastructure , they often find themselves with wasted space . Older data centres weren ’ t built to handle the density and power needs of modern AI workloads . Even those with upgraded setups , like indirect cooling solutions that can support 30kW per rack , are now proving inadequate as requests now frequently these heightened demands and that can handle diverse power requirements while ensuring flexibility for future growth .
What ’ s next ?
As AI continues to reshape what ’ s possible in HPC , the industry is faced with a significant challenge at its core : the power problem . The traditional focus on cooling just isn ’ t enough anymore . With exciting new technologies being developed at a faster pace than ever , attention is shifting to building a robust power infrastructure that can support this new frontier . Data centres that evolve in their design , layout and operational strategies to turn this power challenge from a roadblock into an opportunity , can unlock the full potential of AI in High-Performance Computing . The future of HPC looks bright , but it all depends on our ability to adapt to these new demands . p
Gary Tinkler , Managing Director of Data Centres , Northern Data Group
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