LG Electronics Introduces AI Data Center Optimized Chiller

LG Electronics has introduced a new air-cooled, oil-free, variable-speed turbo chiller specifically optimized for AI data centers. The unit aims to reduce electricity costs while meeting the demand for flexible expansion.

The chiller features LG's proprietary oil-free magnetic bearing technology. This system levitates the rotating shaft using electromagnetic force, eliminating mechanical friction and the need for an oil circulation system. Consequently, cooling efficiency is not compromised by oil film formation within the heat exchanger.

The device also incorporates a natural refrigerant pre-cooling technology. This allows for cooling without the compressor during colder ambient conditions. The compressor, which accounts for over 80% of the total power consumption, can be deactivated, with the low-temperature refrigerant circulating to remove heat.

LG states that this approach can reduce a data center's annual electricity consumption by up to 30% compared to traditional pre-cooling methods. The chiller uses R-513A refrigerant, which has a higher global warming potential (GWP) than R-134a but is cited by the company as meeting ESG requirements.

Furthermore, the chiller includes machine learning capabilities for early anomaly detection to prevent unexpected shutdowns. Following a power outage, an ultra-fast restart function restores the unit to 100% cooling capacity within 180 seconds, ensuring continuous operation for AI servers.