The rise of generative artificial intelligence and large-scale models has radically transformed the needs of data centers worldwide. Processing increasingly dense workloads demands not only massive computing capacity but also infrastructures capable of efficiently, sustainably, and safely dissipating enormous amounts of heat. In this context, Nautilus Data Technologies has introduced EcoCore COOL, an innovative cooling system poised to revolutionize thermal management in data centers.
A Response to AI Pressure
For years, data center cooling relied on traditional systems like CRAC units (Computer Room Air Conditioning) or CRAH (Computer Room Air Handler), which use air as the primary medium to maintain safe temperature ranges. However, the shift to AI workloads — where a single rack can exceed 250 kW of density — has revealed the limitations of these approaches.
The new cooling distribution unit, EcoCore COOL, stands out for a crucial reason: it is designed not to cool individual server racks but entire data halls. Through this architecture, Nautilus aims to ensure that cooling does not become the bottleneck for industry growth.
The system can reject over 8,600 watts per square meter of heat, with each unit capable of dissipating more than 1,000 kW. This makes it an ideal solution for handling the most extreme demands of GPU farms dedicated to AI model training and inference.
Innovative Design: From Vacuum to Dual Circuit
One of EcoCore COOL’s most notable features is its vacuum operation, which eliminates risks of leaks and contamination — a critical concern in environments where any interruption could cost millions. Additionally, it is a 100% chemical-free system that leverages water’s natural properties as a cooling fluid, without the need for additives that could harm equipment or water resources.
The system is based on a dual-circuit design:
- A closed loop that directly cools the hardware inside the data center.
- An open loop that uses different water sources — fresh, salt, greywater, or industrial — to reject heat.
This setup allows adaptation to various environmental conditions. When connected to a natural water body, water consumption is negligible, making it especially attractive for water-stressed regions.
Scalability and Flexibility
EcoCore COOL’s parallel integration capability is another key strength. Multiple systems can connect to increase cooling capacity modularly, enabling operators to scale their infrastructure as their clients’ demands grow.
It also supports multiple cooling technologies:
- Direct-to-chip: liquid delivered directly to the processor or GPU.
- Immersion: servers submerged in dielectric fluids.
- Rear-door cooling: cooling installed at the rear of racks.
This flexibility facilitates coexistence between legacy infrastructures and new hardware generations, reducing transition costs and avoiding duplicated investments.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability has become a key factor for the future of data centers. Regulators and local communities demand that digital infrastructure growth does not translate into unsustainable increases in energy and water consumption.
In this regard, EcoCore COOL is LEED Gold certified, validating its energy efficiency and resource conservation measures. During its development, Nautilus saved over one million gallons of potable water by reusing rainwater in its retention tanks.
Furthermore, by eliminating the need for CRAC and CRAH units, material use, space, and electrical consumption are reduced, improving environmental footprint and overall operational efficiency.
An Agile and Local Supply Chain
Another industry challenge is reliance on global supply chains, which have proven fragile amid the pandemic and geopolitical tensions. To mitigate delays, Nautilus has established partnerships with regional integrators, reducing delivery times and ensuring faster deployment of its solutions.
This strategy grants data centers adopting EcoCore COOL a competitive edge, allowing planned expansions with greater certainty and independence from international bottlenecks.
Voices from the Company
“At Nautilus, our commitment to innovation has always aimed to address the industry’s most urgent challenges,” stated Rob Pfleging, CEO of Nautilus Data Technologies. “EcoCore COOL is the direct answer to the needs of AI-driven data halls, offering unprecedented efficiency and adaptability that set a new industry standard.”
Advancing Digital Infrastructure
With the launch of EcoCore COOL, Nautilus responds not only to the immediate need to manage increasingly demanding workloads but also introduces a new paradigm in data center design: entire rooms cooled modularly, sustainably, and free from chemical risks.
In a landscape where AI and high-performance computing are driving energy use and hardware density higher, solutions like these are poised to become essential for balancing technological growth with environmental responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What sets EcoCore COOL apart from other liquid cooling systems?
Unlike traditional systems that focus on individual racks, EcoCore COOL is designed to cool entire data halls, capable of dissipating over 1,000 kW per unit.
Is it compatible with existing cooling technologies?
Yes. It can integrate with direct-to-chip, immersion, and rear-door solutions, making it versatile and adaptable to various data center scenarios.
How does it promote sustainability?
The system operates without chemicals, reduces water consumption compared to conventional systems, and is LEED Gold certified for energy efficiency.
What impact does it have on data center operational costs?
By eliminating the need for CRAC and CRAH units, it reduces space, materials, and energy consumption, optimizing efficiency and lowering costs in the medium and long term.
via: nautilusdt