The immersion cooling technology is revolutionizing server management in data centers. Highlighting the key features of immersion-cooled servers compared to air-cooled ones, as well as the benefits and options available in the market for this innovative solution.
Differences between Air-Cooled and Immersion-Cooled Servers
The key differences between air-cooled servers and immersion-cooled servers lie in the materials used, component layout, and weight. Servers designed for immersion are optimized for maximum component density and improve fluid convection from bottom to top, eliminating unnecessary parts and significantly reducing their weight.
While servers specifically designed for immersion offer advantages in density and thermal efficiency, it is also possible to adapt air-cooled designs. This process involves modifying elements such as Thermal Interface Material (TIM) pastes, removing fans, improving cable rubbers and silicones, and applying conformal coatings to labels. Submer has compiled a compatibility materials list that works for most single-phase oil-based hydrocarbon oils (PAO) and is expanding this list with the OCP Community.
Impact of Fluid on Servers
Single-phase immersion cooling creates a stable thermal environment for all components, controlling and predicting how each is affected at certain temperatures. This is particularly relevant in a context where the TDP of components such as PSUs and memory disks increases each year, allowing reliable data to be built from aging tests to define safe warranty periods for each manufacturer.
Key Benefits of Immersion Cooling
Immersion cooling technology offers multiple benefits:
High component density: Provides improved performance per rack space.
Extended IT hardware lifespan: Dust-free, vibration-free, and stable thermal environment prolongs the life of submerged components.
Reduced materials for server manufacturing: Lower weight, lower costs, and less complexity.
Data Center Servers Prepared for Immersion
Submer has increased its collaboration with various providers and data centers to adopt immersion cooling and provide test data that dispels myths. Brands that already have an immersion cooling roadmap include:
Ready-to-immersion catalog: Hypertec, GIGABYTE, 2CRSi, and AMAX
Custom servers per project: Boston and Supermicro
First model in launch: Mitac and ASUS
Adapted series: Dell Technologies and UNICOM Engineering
Preparing for Immersion
With immersion cooling offering higher component density, extended IT hardware lifespan, and reduced materials for server manufacturing, companies can achieve unprecedented efficiency and cost savings. Submer is committed to providing significant savings in terms of energy, water, and costs, and their experts are available to guide companies in selecting data center servers for immersion cooling.