Product

Johnson Controls launches air-cooled chillers in Europe

Johnson Controls, an expert in smart, safe, healthy and sustainable buildings, has expanded the availability of its YORK range of YVAM air-cooled magnetic bearing chillers to Europe to meet the growing demand in the data centre industry. As the European data centre market experiences significant growth driven by AI and cloud computing, the YVAM is a crucial thermal management technology for hyperscale and colocation facilities, Johnson Controls tells us. Designed to accelerate deployment with an innovative, scalable and consistent platform, the YVAM also plays a role in ensuring compliance with the new European Union policy on energy efficiency and water conservation. "As data storage demand rises and chip density increases, data centres face increasing challenges with cooling technologies, including broader temperature ranges, reduced energy and water use, noise reduction and limited space," says Johnson Controls President of Data Centre Solutions, Todd Grabowski. "At Johnson Controls, we work with our customers to offer solutions that enable data centres to scale rapidly, operate efficiently, minimise resource use and maintain reliability in a quickly changing landscape." The YORK YVAM chiller consumes 40% less power annually while still delivering the same cooling capacity as other available products. In addition, YVAM offers the widest operating range, allowing for chiller operation from -29°C up to +55°C ambient temperature while producing chilled water temperatures between +15°C up to 30°C. This allows complete flexibility to use the same cooling infrastructure regardless of the cooling technology ranging from cold air aisles to immersion cooling or direct liquid cooling. Further features and benefits include: • Operates with zero water use on site, supporting the growing importance of water usage effectiveness (WUE) and the conservation of water.• Utilises ultra-low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant.• Leverages Johnson Controls proprietary magnetic-bearing technology, variable-speed drives and active front-end technology to maximise efficiency while eliminating the need for free cooling coils.• Produces notably less sound than screw chillers, operating at just 65 dBA at 10 metres - equivalent to the noise level of background music at a restaurant.• The lubrication-free design further simplifies the system by eliminating complex subsystems and reducing maintenance costs.• To ensure uninterrupted operations, the YVAM incorporates Quick Start technology with an integral emergency power management system, enabling the chiller to return to full load in as little as three minutes after a power interruption.• The YVAM is designed in-house and built using flagship York technologies.• It's designed to be a flexible platform that allows for easy inspection and service. "With its innovative design and industry-leading efficiency, YVAM is set to redefine thermal management in data centres across the region,” Todd continues. “We’ve already seen great success for this technology in the North American market and we’re excited to partner with our European customers as the AI and data centre demand rapidly develops.” Johnson Controls offers a wide range of air-cooled and water-cooled chillers as well as air handling units, all designed to meet the needs of hyperscale and colocation customers. These products are supported by a comprehensive suite of fire, safety, building automation and digitally connected services. In June 2024, Johnson Controls launched a dedicated Global Data Centre Solutions organisation to address the industry's rapid growth. Since then, the company has boosted capacity in key regions to meet market demand and reduce lead times. This specialised organisation allows Johnson Controls to provide consistent, high-quality, centralised solutions across the globe, while also adapting to the unique needs of North America, EMEA and APAC, ensuring smooth and reliable support for data centre operators worldwide. For more from Johnson Controls, click here.

EnerSys advances data centre backup power management

EnerSys, a provider of stored energy products for industrial applications, has announced the integration of advanced embedded technology into its DataSafe Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries, enhancing backup power management for data centres. This development enables real-time battery monitoring, optimising performance and reliability in environments where continuous power is critical. As global data centre power demand continues to rise, driven by sectors like AI and cryptocurrencies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that by 2026, demand could double, reaching 1,000 terawatt-hours (TWh) - which is roughly equivalent to Japan’s total yearly electricity consumption today. With this growing demand, data centres face mounting pressure to improve backup power systems to ensure operational continuity. EnerSys technology addresses these challenges by embedding monitoring technology directly into lead-acid batteries. The technology tracks key battery parameters such as voltage and temperature, enabling data centre operators to perform proactive maintenance and reduce battery related downtime. It also integrates with the EnVision Connect system monitor, offering data-driven insights for better performance and operational control. "We’re proud to be at the forefront of transforming backup power management for data centres," says Paul Willougby, Director, Data Centre EMEA at EnerSys. "As data centre power requirements grow, our technology offers operators enhanced visibility and control, ultimately improving reliability and reducing maintenance costs. The integration of embedded intelligence within the battery system is a game-changer for ensuring operational continuity in high-demand environments." A European data centre recently deployed 260 DataSafe batteries with the embedded technology ahead of a major international sporting event to enhance backup power monitoring. By integrating this technology with the EnVision Connect system monitor, the data centre was able to achieve more frequent battery status updates, reducing blind spots and improving its ability to proactively address issues. This integration also led to a reduction in emergency maintenance interventions, helping lower costs while improving compliance with power resilience requirements. Additionally, the data centre gained better operational control, which helped reduce risks associated with backup power failure. This deployment highlights how EnerSys’ technology, in conjunction with the EnVision Connect system monitor, is striving to set a new benchmark for data centre backup power monitoring, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and operational security.

Subzero Engineering announces new CAF system

Subzero Engineering, a provider of data centre containment solutions, has announced that it has launched its new Composite AisleFrame (CAF). In the ongoing challenge of balancing operational efficiency with sustainability, environmental consciousness combined with power resourcefulness are essential objectives for any organisation. Data centres that are handling an ever-increasing complexity of AI and high-performance computing (HPC) have become hugely energy-intensive buildings. To minimise the environmental impact of these buildings while maximising energy use, new strategies need to be implemented and sustainable materials deployed. Subzero Engineering’s new CAF system is made of 100% recyclable composite materials which provides a sustainable frame-based support structure for IT/HPC deployments in environmentally-conscious data centres. As durable and robust as the Steel AisleFrame (SAF) system, but with lightweight materials offering more flexibility and easier scalability, the CAF delivers on substantial cost savings and significant environmental benefits for data centre owners. CAF is 50% lighter than steel alternatives and easily reconfigurable as requirements change. The aisle frame can be flat-packed, allowing more product to be shipped in the same space, delivering lower installation and transportation emissions and costs. Offering up to 4,299 kg CO₂ savings per frame, it delivers unmatched environmental benefits without sacrificing performance. Shane Kilfoil, President, Subzero Engineering, says, “The CAF has many benefits over steel. Every element in a data centre has an intrinsic cost, and steel aisle frame is heavy. CAF has a weight reduction of at least two-thirds over steel, significant global warming potential savings, and improved strength per linear metre. The frame also offers seismic compliance, eliminates powder coating, and reduces installation time. The composite frame is more durable, safer, and environmentally friendly, with better transport efficiency.” Material benefits CAF is not new, and composite material has been used in the construction industry for more than 20 years in many proven application,, such as airplane tail structures, outdoor utility/telephone poles, and transportation bridges. However, Subzero Engineering has refined the product for specific use in data centres to be denser, stronger and with additional fireproof properties. The materials can be reused multiple times and has an extended lifespan, supporting waste reduction and net zero initiatives. Its lightweight framework minimises manual handling risks, is easier to transport, install, reconfigure and scale, and results in a reduced global warming potential in manufacturing, installation and transportation. Weight reduction means cost savings CAF’s strength per linear metre, combined with a 50% reduction in weight, enables multi-level data centres to have CAF systems throughout each building floor, without the additional financial risk of strengthening weight-bearing floors. Its higher tensile and flexural attributes, with a better compressive strength-to-weight ratio than steel, mean CAF is more efficient structurally. The challenge of materials procurement also drives CAF as a convincingly positive consideration. Shane Kilfoil continues, “While steel is resource heavy, CAF is non-resource heavy in implementation. This means Subzero can deliver this aisle frame in a fast and time-appropriate fashion. A steel structure could potentially take months to be shipped, but CAF could conceivably be delivered in weeks.” As the industry shifts to greener technology, the development of sustainable infrastructure built with energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources will continue to be a key strategy in the next generation of high-performance data centres. Utilising the CAF system can enhance high performance and reliability at the same time as accomplishing long-term environmental objectives. This can lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) while helping to deliver on global environmental goals, enhancing the organisation’s eco-friendliness and reputation. The Subzero CAF product line is available globally via the company's channel partners. For more from Subzero Engineering, click here.

Thorn and Zumtobel to unveil sustainable innovations

Join Thorn and Zumtobel at Data Centre World (DCW) to explore the future of lighting innovation and sustainability. DCW will see the UK debut of the revolutionary TECTON II lighting system, and after months of intriguing teaser campaigns, this is the first time the next-generation TECTON system will be showcased in the UK. Developed in collaboration with Italian design and engineering expert, Pininfarina, TECTON II is a revolutionary evolution of a renowned Zumtobel innovation. Designed to be ‘intuitive’ – quick, efficient, and more effective than ever – the system is seeking to set new standards in continuous-row lighting while emphasising sustainability in every phase of its lifecycle. Key sustainable features include a modular design engineered for disassembly, enabling easy repair, recycling, or remanufacturing. With an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), TECTON II transparently details its CO₂ balance, material composition, and recycling potential. Thorn and Zumtobel will be at Data Centre World 2025, taking place at the London ExCel on 12-13 March, and can be found at stand DC535. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

NVC Lighting optimises sustainable products for data centres

As the global data centre industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, NVC Lighting says that it is at the forefront of delivering energy-efficient products that support sustainability goals. Recognising the critical role lighting plays in operational efficiency and energy consumption, NVC Lighting has optimised its Broadway range to provide a smarter, more sustainable approach to data centre illumination. With data centres running 24/7, lighting is a key component in ensuring safety, visibility, and operational effectiveness. However, as energy efficiency becomes a top priority, traditional lighting solutions are no longer viable. The recently launched Broadway range leverages advanced LED technology to reduce power consumption, lower maintenance costs, and support facilities in meeting Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) targets. Designed with sustainability in mind, the Broadway range offers low-glare, high-performance lighting that enhances visibility while significantly cutting down on energy waste. By switching to efficient LED solutions, data centres can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also benefit from long-term cost savings without the need for major infrastructure overhauls. Phil Brown, Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, emphasises the importance of prioritising sustainability in the sector, commenting, “Energy efficiency in data centres isn’t just about cooling systems and server management - lighting is a crucial element that is often overlooked. “With the optimised Broadway range, we’re providing an impactful yet cost-effective solution that allows operators to enhance sustainability without compromising on performance. Investing in efficient LED lighting is a simple yet powerful way to lower operational costs, extend equipment lifespan, and contribute to broader environmental goals. As data centres continue to expand, integrating sustainable lighting solutions will be essential in reducing overall energy demand.” With a strong focus on delivering high-performance, low-energy lighting systems, NVC Lighting is committed to supporting the data centre industry’s shift toward greener, more responsible operations. NVC says that the Broadway range represents a "step forward in achieving greater efficiency without sacrificing reliability or quality", ensuring that data centres are not only well-lit, but also well-prepared for a more sustainable future. Visit NVC Lighting at Data Centre World 2025, taking place at the London ExCel on 12-13 March, on Stand DC075. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

DOLD introduces advanced rack-level energy monitoring

DOLD Industries, a developer of switchgear products, has introduced the RL9405 Smart Energy Meter, meaning businesses can monitor exact rack-level consumption, pinpoint inefficiencies, optimise workloads, and avoid costly overuse. The company states that colocation customers no longer need to worry about unpredictable energy costs and limited visibility into their power usage, as in colocation environments, where customers are billed based on energy usage, the RL9405 ensures fair and accurate cost allocation - so users only pay for what they use. Designed for seamless integration into the tightest server rack spaces, this ultra-compact 35mm-wide meter delivers real-time, precision energy monitoring without requiring additional infrastructure. With no complex wiring or downtime, deployment across multiple racks is fast and effortless. Beyond preventing unexpected power charges with precise kWh tracking, the RL9405 provides real-time access to critical performance metrics. Users can track historical consumption trends, detect anomalies signalling inefficiencies or potential server failures, and perform preventive maintenance to avoid costly downtime. The RL9405 securely stores energy data even during power outages, ensuring critical insights are never lost. With Modbus TCP/RTU connectivity, it enables remote, real-time tracking, integrating seamlessly with existing monitoring systems to identify and resolve inefficiencies instantly, improving overall operational efficiency. DOLD Industries, an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer, is renowned for its extensive range of over 10,000 switchgear products. Its portfolio includes safety relay modules, safety relays with forcibly guided contacts, electronic enclosures, safety switches, safety guard locks and key transfer systems. The company is dedicated to improved automation and electrical safety, making its switchgear products ideal for engineers worldwide across factory, logistics and process automation, as well as renewable energy sectors. In addition to switchgear, DOLD provides network monitoring solutions for DC, AC and mixed AC/DC systems. Its products are essential for ensuring greater operational safety and system reliability, making them ideal for applications such as load switching, mobile power generation, DC charging stations and e-Mobility.

Legrand introduces new Universal Input for data centres

Legrand, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, has announced its latest innovation supporting greater scalability and flexibility in its next-generation intelligent rack PDUs with a new optional Universal Input that accepts interchangeable input power cords. The company believes that this cutting-edge feature is set to transform how data centres manage power requirements with the PRO4X and PX4 PDU models (sold under Legrand brands, Server Technology and Raritan, respectively). Compatible with PRO4X and PX4 PDU models, the Universal Input Cords (UICs) avoid the cost and complexity of mixing and matching different PDUs for worldwide installations. The Universal Input allows for quick adaptation to changing power requirements, significantly reducing both deployment times and costs. It supports interchangeable input cords in single- or three-phase input options (Delta or Wye), enabling a single PDU to be repurposed across projects in worldwide deployments with varying power needs. The new feature further enhances the ability of PRO4X and PX4 PDUs to meet data centre operators' power demands today while preparing them to address tomorrow's rack power deployments. It also offers flexibility when power requirements for a specific installation are not clear. The Universal Input is designed to be 'plug-and-play', with the input automatically recognised when attached to the PDUs. This feature can be used in a variety of applications. For example, leveraging a rack PDU already equipped with the Universal Input can make it easy for cloud providers to deliver infrastructure solutions to customer facilities, especially when it's difficult to get reliable information ahead of time on available power. Joe DeLong, VP/General Manager of Legrand's Data, Power, and Control Division, comments, "We are excited to bring this option to our intelligent rack PDUs. Universal Input is a game-changer for data centre managers operating globally or working within diverse electrical systems. "As power needs evolve, simply swapping the input cord allows the PDU to meet new requirements without replacing the entire unit. This capability is invaluable for data centres dealing with unpredictable or evolving power specifications. Universal Input transforms the PRO4X and PX4 into universal PDUs, providing one PDU that meets all rack power applications." Other key features of the Universal Input include: 45-degree angled infeed is a one-size-fits-all feature that saves money and time Global flexibility for power types and input cords Unique keyed connector provides easy and safe cord installation Cord connector to PDU is reportedly the smallest form factor in the industry, ensuring the connection to the PDU is not in the way Patented Smart Cord functionality auto recognises cord ratings when input power cords are attached to the PDU Compatibility with any regional power infrastructure, allowing the PDU to be shipped to any location worldwide For more from Legrand, click here.

Fused connectors to increase system availability for data centres

Large buildings like data centres require a Building Automation System (BAS) to control Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), lighting, power supply, core IT and security systems. The control cabinets for those subsystems are built with fused terminal blocks or circuit breakers to protect against short-circuits or overcurrent. In the event of a short circuit, fixing the fault and finding the broken fuse is a time-consuming task. The fault may be in the switch cabinet or the device itself and several control cabinets may need to be examined before the fault can be isolated. With Han Protect, HARTING has developed a new connector that simplifies protection and reduces installation space in the control cabinet. Inside the connector, there is an insulation body that adapts an M12A-coded five-pole connector and integrates a 5 x 20mm miniature fuse. In the event of a short circuit, the fuse ensures that the supply to the connected units is quickly interrupted. A red LED on the Han Protect clearly identifies the blown fuse and enables quick, tool-less replacement without opening the cabinet. Due to the external mounting of the housings, up to 30% of installation space can be saved inside the cabinet. The main advantage of Han Protect is that extensive fuse terminal blocks are no longer required. The control units remain protected, Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) is reduced, and system availability is increased.To learn more about HARTING’s connectivity technology and pre-assembled cabling systems for data centres, visit the company on stand DC-536 at Data Centre World at London Excel, taking place on 12-13 March. As well as Han Protect, HARTING will be demonstrating its Han-Eco connectors, which improve energy efficiency by up to 50% by minimising the power lost in connections. The company will also be showing the ORV3 OCP Input Power Connector, which was developed alongside the Open Compute Project. It enables a more compact design for data centre infrastructure thanks to its shallower rack system. - To learn more about Han Protect and request a free sample, click here. For more from HARTING, click here.

Vertiv to launch Liquid Cooling Services portfolio

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity products, has announced the launch of Vertiv Liquid Cooling Services. The company states that this offering provides customers with the tools to enhance system availability, improve efficiency, and navigate the evolving challenges of advanced liquid cooling systems with confidence. Vertiv has been delivering these services for more than a year to regional early adopters, refining best practices and gaining valuable insights that have now enabled the expansion of its liquid cooling service capabilities on a global scale. This experience brings a mature and proven approach, Vertiv tells us, providing data centre operators worldwide with expert support based on real-world application and success. AI workloads continue to reshape the data centre landscape, driving a significant increase in data centre rack densities, with 30 kW racks now becoming the standard and some reaching up to 120 kW or higher. Operators are facing increased heat loads and higher power densities, and thus the need for liquid cooling solutions to maintain operational continuity is in high demand. “The increasing reliance on liquid-cooled AI servers necessitates a comprehensive approach to lifecycle management,” says Sean Graham, Research Director of Cloud and Data Centre at IDC. “Given the complexities inherent in these cooling ecosystems, a robust support programme is not merely advisable, but a best practice to ensure both system availability and long-term operational viability.” Vertiv's Liquid Cooling Services offering is focused on providing seamless integration of liquid cooling systems with IT equipment and adjacent infrastructure. It includes expert installation and commissioning, ongoing maintenance with special attention to fluid management, cleanliness, and preventing air from entering the system - which is key for system reliability Vertiv believes that traditional maintenance practices aren't enough for the complexities of liquid cooling systems supporting critical AI applications. This offering leverages the company's industry experience and provides best-practices delivery of preventive and condition-based maintenance to provide reliable and efficient system performance and to maximise availability. Vertiv Liquid Cooling Services includes a full range of solutions designed to support AI-driven and high-performance computing environments, providing seamless integration, long-term reliability, and operational continuity. Vertiv’s certified technicians and field engineers provide expert support at every stage, confirming that heat rejection systems and cooling loop fluid systems function optimally: • Startup & Commissioning Services – Proactively identify and address potential issues that could result from improper installation, preventing delays and enabling a smooth and efficient system launch while verifying quality of all of the connected equipment.• Spare Parts Availability – Quick access to replacement components, supporting faster repairs when needed, and reducing potential downtime.• End-to-End Lifecycle Support – Digital, proactive system maintenance is at the core of this offering, allowing long-term reliability and optimised cooling performance. Documentation of all processes supporting the secondary fluid network provides a health history for the equipment to inform ongoing support.• Comprehensive Fluid Management Services – Maintaining optimal coolant quality is essential for reliable system performance. Vertiv’s services include coolant sampling, laboratory testing, contamination prevention, and environmentally responsible disposal to maximise system longevity and efficiency while enhancing system resilience of the secondary fluid network and technology cooling system.• Emergency and preventive support: Emergency response teams provide rapid, on-site and remote support to diagnose and resolve issues, minimising downtime and restoring operations quickly. “High-performance computing (HPC) and AI are critical to business innovation and competitive advantage, making reliability and efficiency in supporting critical digital infrastructure more important than ever," says Ryan Jarvis, Vice President Global Services Business at Vertiv. "As organisations continue to invest in AI-driven systems, they need robust liquid cooling solutions to protect their investment and to enable long-term performance." Vertiv Liquid Cooling Services leverages the Vertiv Global Services network, which provides project services, product support, testing and training for Vertiv’s portfolio of products. Backed by over 240 service centres, more than 3,500 field engineers, and 190-plus technical response specialists, Vertiv provides expert support across multiple regions. The new Liquid Cooling Services offering is now globally available. For more from Vertiv, click here.

Riello UPS set for Data Centre World 2025

Critical power protection specialist, Riello UPS, is set to showcase its comprehensive range of data centre products and innovations at the industry’s largest trade event of the year. The uninterruptible power supply manufacturer is once again exhibiting at Data Centre World, which returns to ExCeL London on 12-13 March. Members of the Riello UPS team will be on hand at stand DC340 throughout the two-day event to showcase demo versions of several of its data centre UPS ranges, including the modular Multi Power and Multi Power2, the evolution of its modular offering capable of ultra-high efficiency of up to 98.1%. They will also be on hand to outline the business’s range of UPS maintenance plans, comprehensive data centre UPS design and consultancy services, and a growing library of certified CPD content for data centre consultants and engineers. Data Centre World is recognised as the largest global gathering of data centre professionals, and this year’s event is once again staged as part of the wider Tech Show London, giving attendees the opportunity to explore four other co-hosted events (Cloud Expo Europe, DevOps Live, Cloud & Cyber Security Expo, and Big Data & AI World). DCW 2025 will host more than 300 exhibitors from across the industry, along with a packed conference programme featuring over 200 hours of seminars, discussions, and speakers. Key themes for this year’s show include: • Redefining Data Centres: Sustainability, Resiliency, and Tech Innovation• Navigating the Regulation Landscape• Protecting the Data Centre: Security in the Modern World• Modernising Data Centre Infrastructures: Edge, Colocation, Hyperscales• The Impact of AI on Data Centres• Cultivating a People-Focused Data Centre Workforce Culture• Financing Data Centres: The Investor’s Perspective. Leo Craig, Managing Director of Riello UPS, comments, “Data Centre World is always our most anticipated show of the year and we can’t wait to showcase our proven range of data centre solutions again at the ExCeL. “This year’s event is the first since our successful completion of the company merger, bringing together all the wholly owned UK subsidiaries of Riello UPS under one strong, unified brand. We’re looking forward to showing how integrating these strengths, expertise, and resources into a single entity will enable us to provide enhanced product and service offering, along with expanded customer support.” For more from Riello UPS, click here.