Apr 19, 2023 | 4-Min. Read
Andraž Lazič
In the fast-paced world of HPC facilities and Data Centers, the demand for efficient cooling solutions has never been more critical. With the surge in global data requirements propelled by AI and ML technologies and chip technology advancements, traditional cooling methods are proving insufficient to handle the heat generated by high-density computing environments.
In response, adopting liquid cooling solutions has emerged as a game-changer , particularly in Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC), especially if you aim at compact, scalable, high-performance, and low-noise data centers.
The evolving HPC landscape, marked by advancements in CPU and GPU technologies, presents a challenge in managing the escalating heat generated by these powerful processors. Traditional air-cooling systems, reliant on multiple noisy fans, struggle to dissipate the heat produced by modern CPUs, some with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) reaching 400W, and GPUs ranging from 350 to 600W .
In the context of the 4th industrial revolution and the AI era, there is a growing demand for diverse and compact HPC clusters comprising multiple nodes and storage solutions. However, the traditional infrastructure of server rooms often falls short of accommodating these specialized requirements.
This challenge of creating a high-performing, scalable, low-noise, and energy-efficient cooling solution for HPC clusters is what led the team at HPCMATE, headed by Bernard Park – the CEO & Chief Solution Architect at HPCMATE , to develop CoolUX.
CoolUX represents a comprehensive solution for transforming commercial air-cooled servers into efficient DLC systems. Comprising a Pump Array, Heat Exchanger, Coolant Distribution Units, Universal Cooling Management software, and direct liquid-cooled servers, CoolUX boasts several key features. In comparison to traditional air-cooled solutions, CoolUX's key features include:
Enabling micro data centers to be placed anywhere
Eliminating TDP limitations from traditional form factors, allowing increased density
Reducing up to 90% of noise during full operation by eliminating system fans or reducing their speed
Maintaining optimal computational temperature conditions for CPUs/GPUs through direct liquid cooling
Lowering VAC costs by focusing on the limited cooling area where the HE is positioned
“But all the major benefits come from EK’s high-quality direct liquid cooling products,” says Bernard, the CEO of HPCMATE, and adds: “Through the liquid cooling approach, we can eradicate the disruptive noise while enjoying various advantages, including energy savings, enhanced cooling efficiency, and increased density.”
*Note: The driving condition refers to the state of the sample after starting operation. The sound pressure level is measured during 100% load operation (approximately 1 minute 30 seconds after startup) and after switching to stable state operation.
Partnering with EK Enterprise proved instrumental for HPCMATE in realizing the vision for CoolUX. Leveraging EK's high-quality liquid cooling products, HPCMATE successfully developed, tested, and launched CoolUX, achieving professional DLC infrastructure for HPC micro data centers.
The noise level of liquid-cooled servers compared to air-cooled counterparts, measured at a distance of 1 meter, dropped from 82dBA to only 28dBA at 100% operation . This underscores the effectiveness of the solution in creating a quieter and more efficient computing environment.
Feedback from the HPCMATE team emphasizes the success of the DLC solution, highlighting the following aspects of our solutions:
Performance
Reliability
Build quality
Choice of materials
Quality assurance
Ease of use
Integration into existing designs
Bernard Park, CEO of HPCMATE, expresses utmost satisfaction with EK Enterprise products, emphasizing their crucial role in converting air-to-liquid systems. The partnership between HPCMATE and EK Enterprise exemplifies a win-win collaboration, paving the way for future innovations in cooling technology.
“AS always, I am 100% satisfied with the performance, quality, and service,” says Benard. “I am confident that EK Enterprise products are crucial for converting air-to-liquid systems. The positive and productive discussions with EK Enterprise consistently prove to be remarkably helpful in getting the job done. I hope to remain as a long-lasting win-win partner with EKWB!”