DATA CENTRE MANAGEMENT
Effective data centre management relies not only on
initial design but also on ongoing technical and maintenance support to ensure continuous operation
were to fail, then data could be lost on a large scale. Of course, all equipment is subject
to fail at some point and that is when the ‘back-up ‘measures need to kick-in and ensure continuity of an effective cooling system. Our control systems feedback data
from pumps, valves, pressurisation units and degassers. For example, we can tell from the vacuum degasser how much air has been removed over a certain period and when, as well provide valuable information- revealing trends within the system.
Chilling out in a tech driven world
Rob Jacques
www.spirotech.com
O
Business director UK at Spirotech
ur reliance on the efficient operation of data centres only becomes apparent to the end-user when systems
go down – even for half an hour. This can have a major impact on the efficient running of UK plc particularly when, during such a period, a bank or banks are unable to process their customers’ monetary transactions. We learnt that McDonald’s, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and bakery chain Greggs had tech outages during March this year which created havoc for the companies and their customers, further demonstrating our reliance on digital systems. Data centres can be targets of
internet sabotage – such as ‘denial of service’ (DoS) attacks, which bombard a system with requests and prevent it from being able to function. However, a DoS attack is just one of many potential types of malevolent cyber- attacks designed to do damage and harm our infrastructure. However, putting to one side
malevolent issues, data centres need to be able to run 24/7 without any downtime. A major factor in achieving this is down to the measures in place for cooling the data systems within
Companies like Spirotech help ensure efficient operations by maintaining critical cooling systems
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the building. As you can imagine, having vast numbers of servers and networking equipment creates heat and, unless optimum operating temperatures are achieved, then the equipment and service functionality is put at risk. Loss of stored data – either temporarily, or permanently – is clearly of paramount concern to every data centre.
Critical equipment Spirotech is one of a small number of companies with the expertise and track record to service this niche sector. Currently, we are working on several major data centre projects, all of which require critical equipment selection and a support package for the customer. Given the safety and security
considerations data centre managers must observe, there is no room for error. Appointing a company to do the work because it was the cheapest could prove very costly indeed. As a leading manufacturer, Spirotech can
To ensure data centres operate 24/7, it is essential to have backup systems in place, along with the appropriate infrastructure and cooling solutions, says Rob Jacques.
access replacement parts without delay – another major consideration. Clearly in any such installation
project, the cooling systems are of paramount importance and, therefore, careful attention needs to be taken at the design stage to cover all eventualities including a comprehensive ‘back-up’ plan that covers key elements including the chiller, pumps and pressurisation. In addition, thought must be given to the communication channels between the plant itself and critical equipment parts.
Size matters Quite simply, the bigger the computer the more it must be cooled. To put this in perspective, the rise of cloud computers means that a huge amount of energy is required to manage and maintain all our data, with tens of megawatts of computer power needed. This means computers occupy thousands of square metres of space. If the chillers, or the cooling programme
Under pressure The same applies to the pressurisation units: information is gathered over its operational lifespan revealing what the pressure has been, report on any leaks and when there has been the need to bring in more water. (There is a link between the pressurisation units and vacuum degassers). Any faults can be signalled and sent over to whoever needs the data.
A poorly designed, installed and maintained pressurisation system can lead to negative pressures around the circuit. Air can be drawn in through automatic air vents, gaskets and micro leaks. High pressure situations can lead to water being emitted through the safety valves and the subsequent frequent addition of further raw refill water. The Top Control unit has the electronic capabilities to effectively manage pressurisation within the system and be programmed to work in parallel with the ‘back-up’ system.
Good reputation Air and dirt separators are another key component to maintaining the ongoing health of any heating and ventilation system, and keeping pipework clean is essential. Within our sector, there is a much smaller community serving the data centres – it’s an area not every company wants to be in or is geared-up to serve. Your reputation is effectively on the line with every project that you undertake. Here at Spirotech, we have the
expertise and experience within this niche arena to provide an all- encompassing service. We listen closely to the needs of the client, design a bespoke system and, as a leading manufacturer, can supply the right equipment for the project. Customers also have peace of mind that we can supply spares to a tight deadline.
It’s not just about getting the design
right from the outset; it’s providing the ongoing technical and maintenance support for the project. ■
EIBI | NOVEMBER � DECEMBER 2024
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