thermal analysis

Developing the Strategy

Performing a thermal analysis of a data center data floor includes collecting multiple data conditions within the floor area. There are many variables at play, such as supply air temperature, velocity, cfm, direction of flow, containment, etc. Often, without cold / hot isle containment, cross contamination of hot air is found re-entrained in the cold air supply.

A typical thermal analysis will include

• Thermographic scan of the racks
• Thermographic scan of the PDU's and other equipment with penetrations thru the raised floor (as applicable)
• Collect additional data such as quantity and location of floor tiles / outlets
• Supply air temperature entering the suction side of the servers
• Verify the seal around servers and blank-off plates as necessary
• Cooling air distribution, including variable conditions at the bottom and top of the racks

We will examine the installed perforated floor tiles (if applicable) and compare the face velocity at the operational pressure to determine cfm flow rates. We look for areas of low pressure induced by the velocity of the surface air (vernouli effect) typically found at the bottom of the racks. We look for low or no airflow at the top of the racks, or often, hot isle air migrating over the top of the racks only to be used as cooling air.

If further analysis is required we can investigate the control system and review the trend logs to see if variable load profiles are affecting cooling. We look for critical failure points and recommend mitigation stratagies. Hot / cold isle containment stratagies are often recommended.

We use the most cutting-edge techniques, technologies and test equipment that allow us to put together the clearest picture and understanding of what is happening. Then it is up to us to put together a mitigation plan that is both the most cost effective and reliable.