Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
– Virtual facility
Keysource Ltd
0845 204 3333
www.keysource.co.uk

What is CFD?
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is one of the branches of fluid
mechanics that uses numerical methods and algorithms to solve and
analyse problems that involve fluid flows. Computers are used to
perform the millions of calculations required to simulate the interaction
of liquids and gases with surfaces defined by boundary conditions.

Model data Every item within the model is
constructed to replicate actual
physical and operational
attributes as closely as
possible including:
Servers – Airflow, Temperature Rise
Air Handling – Capacity Curves, Control Philosophy, Fan
Power
Cabinets – Airflow, Obstructions, Cable Obstructions
Materials – Density, Conductivity, Specific Heat Capacity,
Surface Emissivity

Servers

Room build process
Raised Floor, Pillars

Room build process
Cabinets
Cabinets

Room build process
Aisle containment

Room build process
Aisle containment

Room build process
Air Inlet and Discharge Grilles

Room build process
Electrical Infrastructure

Room build process
UPS & Batteries

Room build process
Ceiling (air return plenum)

Room build process
Lighting

Room build process
Power Distribution

Rack Power
densities
Initial Deployment
Future Deployment

Results – Equipment Inlet
Temperatures

Temperature plane

Results - Temperature plane

Results – Supply air

Design
Process
Identification of Cabs With High Inlet
Temperatures

Design
process
Identification of Air Streams

Design Process
Identification of Cause of Elevated Temperature

Audit Example
Existing Facility Modelled to Server Level

Audit Example
Identifying Hot Racks / Improved Layout

Audit Example
Identifying How Air is Mixing

Audit Example
Short Cycling

Recap Conceptual Design
Detailed Design
Ongoing Management
Managing Airflow is the Enabler to
Efficient Cooling