Rittal Unveils Over 1 MW Cooling Solution for AI
Rittal has developed a modular cooling distribution unit (CDU) with a cooling capacity exceeding 1 MW. The solution utilizes direct liquid cooling based on water, supporting new IT infrastructure technologies that enable AI applications.
Rittal, a provider of IT infrastructure solutions, has developed a new modular cooling distribution unit (CDU) with a cooling capacity surpassing one megawatt. The unit employs direct liquid cooling using water and is designed to support the evolving IT infrastructure technologies required for AI applications.
The CDU will be showcased at the 2024 OCP Global Summit. Rittal states the solution was developed in close cooperation with hyperscalers and server OEMs. The technology incorporates Open Rack V3 and OCP principles alongside modularization, allowing its modules to be handled similarly to servers.
Lars Platzhoff, Head of Rittal's Cooling Solutions Business Unit, emphasized the practical manageability of the solution. He noted that beyond providing cooling capacity and integration, it is crucial for the solution to remain manageable for data center staff as part of routine operations.
Rittal anticipates that liquid-to-liquid cooling solutions will become standard, particularly for hyperscalers operating large data centers. The company also offers liquid-to-air cooling alternatives for data centers lacking direct water connections, though these do not achieve the same cooling output and efficiency as fully liquid-cooled systems. These alternatives facilitate the adoption of direct liquid cooling in data centers to enhance AI capabilities.