Motor Controls Drive Efficiency in Data Center Cooling

Softstarters Provide Hard Returns for Data Center Cooling

Softstarters contribute to energy efficiency by controlling the acceleration of an electric motor, which in turn reduces the electrical load and mechanical stress on the motor and equipment during start-up. This gentle acceleration minimizes the inrush current and diminishes the instantaneous torque, leading to a more efficient use of power and extending the lifespan of system components. For cooling systems in data centers, where fans, pumps and compressors are frequently started and stopped, applying softstarters can significantly reduce energy consumption and wear, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

Advanced softstarters, like the PSTX from ABB, allow operators to set parameters, such as initial start-up voltage, ramp-up time and the current limit. By adjusting the cooling system’s performance to the precise needs of the data center at any given time, energy wastage is minimized, contributing to a lower power usage effectiveness (PUE) ratio. PUE is a key metric for assessing the energy efficiency of a data center. These softstarters also frequently offer protective features to prevent overloads and monitor the motor’s operational conditions.

Compact Motor Control Components Improve Cooling Efficiency

Efficient use of space is critical in data centers, where cooling systems must be strategically placed to support optimal performance without competing with computing equipment. Compact motor control components offer a significant advantage by minimizing the footprint within electrical enclosures and control panels. Their streamlined design simplifies installation and maintenance, enabling engineers to build more space-efficient and energy-optimized cooling systems that enhance overall data center functionality.

Contactors such as ABB AF Contactors, certified for the new chiller and HVAC A2L certification, control fan and pump motors, reduce chiller system failure and prevent potential data center downtime.

The new A2L gas inside chiller systems makes the closing speed of the contactor one of the most critical specifications to consider. New regulations require A2L refrigerant to be used instead of the previous inert A2 coolant. A2L refrigerant is energy efficient and has a lower global warming potential (GWP) but is up to six times more flammable. Fast closing shuts down the system quickly and safely to help prevent a possible fire in the event of a coolant leak.

Intelligent Insights into Energy Usage

Effective energy management in data centers begins with visibility. Components that monitor the health of power distribution systems are essential for improving efficiency and enabling strategies like condition-based maintenance. While large data centers often rely on custom monitoring systems, midtier and smaller facilities can benefit from smart components with built-in intelligence. These devices connect seamlessly to platforms like ABB Ability^TM Energy Manager or existing energy management tools, making advanced monitoring accessible and scalable across operations.

Intelligent power components, like the TruONE™ ATS, Tmax® XT Circuit Breakers and PSTX soft starter, have excellent power monitoring capabilities. They can measure voltage, current and power, as well as more advanced measurements such as energy (non-revenue metering), harmonics and power quality/power factor.

Universal motor controllers (UMC) can help data center operators enhance energy efficiency in cooling systems by providing intelligent motor protection and control functions, allowing motors to operate more efficiently and with better management of energy use. ABB’s UMC100.3, for instance, provides detailed operational, diagnostic and service data in real time. This feature facilitates predictive maintenance, which can help pre-emptively address issues that might lead to higher energy consumption or inefficient operation.

Preparing for an Energy-Efficient, Data-Driven Future

As data centers continue to expand, energy-efficient cooling strategies will be essential for sustainable growth. Innovative motor control solutions empower OEMs and operators to reduce energy consumption, improve reliability and prepare for a data-driven future. We can be reasonably sure that data centers will be at the core of tomorrow’s economy, and innovations designed to improve energy efficiency will be more important than ever.

*Deloitte Center for Technology Media and Telecommunications