• • • DATACENTREMANAGEMENT • • • An important point to note here, is that the cost
of high-quality sensors is insignificant (and almost non-existent) in comparison with both the energy efficiency that they enable and with the value of the IT assets that they help protect.
Take advantage of
weather forecasts By anticipating upcoming hot weather, data centres can use predictive cooling to avoid early chiller startup, make optimal use of free cooling and reduce chiller operating hours. This proactive approach translates into further energy savings and a lower carbon footprint.
Change sensors to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
and cabling Typically, the internal environments of data centres are monitored by hundreds or even thousands of sensors, and each instrument needs a connection with the BMS controller so that it can report the measurement values. Sensors with analog signals require a dedicated cable from each sensor to the controller. However, if operators can switch to a fieldbus connection it becomes possible to daisy- chain the instruments so that only one cable is needed, and thereby dramatically reduce the cabling requirement. For example, a 100-metre aisle with 30 instruments, each with dedicated cables spaced
three metres apart, with a three-metre cable drop, would require 1695 metres of cable weighing 110 kg. However, in stark contrast, a fieldbus communication protocol would allow sensors to be daisy-chained, requiring just 187 metres of cable, weighing just 12 kg. That amounts to 89 per cent less cabling, which leads to more efficient power distribution and lower energy losses; reducing energy consumption and lowering CO2 emissions.
How to choose a sensor provider Most reputable businesses are looking to lower their greenhouse gas emissions; in their own processes, in the use of their products and in their supply chains. Consequently, when choosing sensors, it makes sense to look for a provider with a sustainability focus. For example, Vaisala’s instruments are produced using renewable electricity and the company has set science-based targets for reducing emissions. In 2024 Vaisala received a gold medal from EcoVadis for its sustainability management system, and Vaisala has been ranked 38th in the 2025 edition of the World’s Best Companies – Sustainable Growth ranking by TIME Magazine and Statista.
The challenge: Uptime is
non-negotiable Both temperature and humidity levels must be very carefully maintained to achieve the uptime requirements of large data centres. However, larger
data halls can be more challenging to monitor because they have a greater potential for temperature variation; meaning it’s important that there are sufficient numbers of temperature sensors to ensure that all servers are monitored. In addition to the temperature issues discussed above, IT equipment is also adversely affected by humidity. Low levels increase the risk of static electricity, while high levels of humidity can result in condensation, both of which can damage delicate equipment. Data centres often have no maintenance workers onsite, so equipment reliability is crucial. With Vaisala equipment currently operating on
the planet Mars, the long-term reliability of Vaisala sensors in remote locations is beyond question. In addition, Vaisala has developed portable reference probes so that data centre maintenance staff can perform a quick calibration check on installed sensors. Vaisala equipment does not therefore need to be sent offsite for calibration, and service staff do not need to bring large amounts of equipment onsite, a useful feature for remote locations. Accurate, stable sensors, weather forecast utilisation, daisy chaining with fieldbus connectivity and sustainability-focused supply chains all contribute to operational reliability and therefore uptime, whilst also minimising CO2 emissions. Furthermore, Vaisala is a global leader in measurement instruments, with unsurpassed sustainability credentials, defining its core purpose as taking every measure for the planet.
Surge PDevices
• • • Up to 100kA Imax • • 1 Phase + N & 3 Phase + N • • • • •
• • • • • Up to 50kA Imax • • 1 Phase + N & 3 Phase + N • • • •
t: 01785 818600 e:
sales@switchtec.com
www.switchtec.com
electricalengineeringmagazine.co.uk ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • APRIL 2025 17
• • • Up to 40kA Imax • • • • • • • •
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