Components of the MODERATOR Prototype
- An immersion cooling system utilizing dielectric coolants
- An innovative phase-change material (PCM) for heat storage
- A highly efficient multilayered insulation, complemented by an electricity conversion system based on the Rankine cycle.
MODERATOR Prototype Characteristics
- MODULARITY ― Utilizing a modular design approach facilitates straightforward scale-up, making it suitable for applications ranging from small (few kW) to large (several MW) data centers, adaptable on a site-specific basis.
- SIMPLICITY ― The direct installation capability allows for placement in any location, whether indoors or outdoors, without extensive facility requirements.
- SUSTAINABILITY ― Prioritizing safety and environmental cleanliness, the prototype utilizes recycled materials and adheres to a zero-effluent concept by design, promoting human health and environmental well-being.
Objectives
- Development of a pioneering custom-designed immersion cooling system aimed at unlocking the potential for heat recovery and efficient utilization in data centers.
- Creation of an innovative heat recovery system utilizing Phase Change Materials (PCMs), enabling efficient extraction of low-temperature heat within the range of 50°C–65°C. This system will incorporate novel materials and system design approaches.
- Innovation in the development of a highly efficient multilayer insulation system for Thermal Energy Storage (TES), leveraging patented technology utilizing expanded recycled glass granules and highly reflective microparticles to minimize heat loss during seasonal storage. This system's novelty lies in its multilayer structure combining insulation materials to achieve maximum heat conservation, along with a multifunctional topcoat for complete insulation protection and overall heat loss reduction.
- Integration of both subcomponents into an automated prototype capable of direct heat utilization and/or long-term storage for subsequent on-demand use.
Funding
This project has received funding from European Union’s Horizon Europe’s Research and Innovation Program under grant agreement No. 101136156. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Relevant projects
The HEATWISE project tackles the integration of waste heat and thermal energy management in tertiary buildings with significant IT loads for the minimization of waste heat, maximization of energy efficiency, and generation of additional value. Through pilots in Denmark, Poland, Switzerland, and Turkey, HEATWISE aims to pioneer innovative solutions, encompassing hybrid (liquid and air) cooling technology, digital twin-supported holistic data management system, integrated multi-objective building energy management system, and a self-assessment and optimization tool, complemented by a knowledge-sharing platform.
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The goal of HYCOOL-IT project is to develop a set of processes supported by both digital and technical equipment innovative solutions for an efficient and reliable development of IT Server Rooms for advanced tertiary buildings, with a special focus on its replicability through standardization. In parallel, a highly innovative Rack-integrated adsorption chiller for waste-heat powered server cooling is developed and optimized to carry out efficient liquid cooling of IT servers and, simultaneously, provide cooling to the server room itself in a compact, self-contained, and cost-effective way.
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The THUNDER project aims to overcome existing barriers hampering a wide adoption of data centers waste heat recovery strategies, providing an innovative, efficient and cost-effective Seasonal Thermal storage based on Thermochemical Materials. THUNDER solutions stretch across the value chain (data center innovative storage providers, heat pump manufacturers and district energy company operators). The THUNDER solutions will be validated in field conditions at the Demosite in Bulgaria where the practice of waste heat recovery from data centers is not widely diffused thus boosting the market also in those areas. A deepened replicability assessment will be done and prefeasibility analysis developed in 10 further Demosites across all over Europe.
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Results & Publications
During the following months we will present the results of our research in a variety of deliverables. Stay tuned and visit back to read publications, presentations and other relevant material.