Case Study: Safely Increase Set-Points in a Hyperscale Environment
Overview
In 2021, a hyperscale data center operator sought to align with a company-wide Green Initiative by increasing their temperature set points. Although they were already operating near the maximum allowable server manufacturer specifications, they aimed to further raise set points safely. They utilized the AUDIT-BUDDY system to validate their internal server sensors. Through this collaboration, Purkay Labs identified a significant temperature offset, enabling the client to confidently optimize their operations and achieve their efficiency goals.
The Project
The Client used Purkay Labs’ Thermal Survey Service to capture time-trend data at 110 locations around their data center. The AUDIT-BUDDY systems were placed in the Cold Aisle, Air Handling Units, PDUs Roof and Electrical rooms. The measurements were taken over 48 hours, and the data was then compared to the Client’s internal IT equipment reports to assess the accuracy of the server sensors.
The Results
The data revealed a significant 1.80°F offset between the reported equipment temperature data and the AUDIT-BUDDY measurements. This site-wide offset provided valuable insights, enabling the client to make informed changes to the cooling system algorithm. By adjusting the algorithm to account for this offset, the client achieved substantial energy savings, aligning with their efficiency targets while maintaining the desired levels of reliability and availability.
Key Take-Aways
Independent Validation: AUDIT-BUDDY's high-accuracy sensors provided independent validation of internal server sensor readings, ensuring data accuracy and reliability.
Data-Driven Adjustments: Leveraging the insights from Purkay Labs' data analysis, the client made data-driven changes to their cooling system, achieving significant energy savings and meeting company efficiency targets.
Enhanced Efficiency: The client successfully increased set points in their hyperscale data center, maximizing efficiency without compromising reliability, by utilizing Purkay Labs' expertise and advanced tools.
Summary
Purkay Labs' collaboration with the hyperscale data center operator redefined how environmental data is collected and validated during critical optimization processes. By using the AUDIT-BUDDY system, the client could confidently adjust their cooling system, enhancing efficiency while maintaining high reliability. This partnership enabled the client to meet their Green Initiative goals and optimize their data center operations.
About Purkay Labs
We believe that Data Center Operators deserve quick, reliable and independent data about their white space environment, without the burden of complicated permanent monitoring systems. We create simple, standalone, and cost-effective portable environmental monitoring systems so you can get data wherever and whenever you need it. Our flagship product- the AUDIT-BUDDY system- is the first multi-height portable environmental monitor that provides data to help manage your airflow, reduce Scope II emissions, increase energy efficiency & cooling optimization.
You can follow us @purkaylabs or visit our website: www.purkaylabs.com
About the Thermal Survey Service
With Purkay Labs Thermal Survey Service, our expert team will travel to your facility and conduct an extensive audit of your facility’s layout and environment. Purkay Labs will provide comprehensive and accurate temperature, humidity, dew point and serve delta-T data at multiple locations across the facility. Using the AUDIT-BUDDY system, Purkay Labs will capture data at multiple heights, and will not touch any cabinets or impact the daily operation. Purkay Labs will work with your team to get the data you need based on the project specifications.