What Is The Role of A Dry Cooler in A Data Centre

What Is The Role of A Dry Cooler in A Data Centre

The main role of a dry cooler in a data centre is to dissipate the heat generated by equipment such as servers through the process of heat transfer between air and liquid. It is an important part of a data centre's cooling solution, especially in environments where energy requirements are high and water usage needs to be reduced. Dry coolers typically work in conjunction with a data centre's liquid cooling system or chilled water system as the final step in heat dissipation.

Dry coolers work through a closed loop system where a cooling liquid (such as water or a glycol mix) absorbs heat from the equipment in the data centre and is pumped to the dry cooler. The dry cooler discharges the heat from the liquid to the environment through the air. The cooled liquid is recirculated back to the equipment to dissipate the heat again, creating a continuous cycle.

Dry coolers can work in conjunction with other cooling systems such as precision air conditioning (CRAC), chilled water systems and direct air cooling systems. For example, a dry cooler can be used as a heat exchange unit in a chilled water system, discharging heat from the chilled water through the air flow. Compared to conventional cooling towers, dry coolers reduce water consumption in a closed cycle, are more environmentally friendly and are easier to operate and maintain.

In some colder climates, dry coolers can take advantage of the natural cooling effect, also known as ‘free cooling’. When outside temperatures are low, dry coolers can cool liquids directly through the ambient air, reducing reliance on energy-intensive mechanical cooling equipment, and thus dramatically lowering the energy consumption of the data centre.