Artificial intelligence is pushing data centers to work harder than ever, creating more heat than traditional cooling methods can handle.
In fact, meeting AI’s expansion is expected to require an estimated $7 trillion in data center investments by 2030. Yet, the biggest obstacle isn’t just boosting its processing power, but controlling the heat that comes with it.
That’s where liquid cooling comes in, offering a more innovative and efficient way to keep data centers running smoothly and infrastructure lasting longer.
Did You Know?
The Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) have become increasingly popular destinations for data center operations. Among other benefits, the cold Nordic climate significantly reduces the need for energy-intensive cooling systems, resulting in lower operational costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
What Is Liquid Cooling?
Liquid cooling uses a fluid, rather than air, to absorb heat from processors and carry it away. Unlike air, liquids can hold more heat, making them a far more efficient cooling agent for dense, high-powered hardware.
The principle is the same at every scale. A CPU liquid cooling system in a workstation runs coolant over a single chip, while high-performance liquid cooling in a data center does the same across thousands of GPUs and CPUs.
As data centers become more powerful, the shift toward liquid cooling is not just a trend but an operational necessity.
Types of Liquid Cooling Systems
There are two main types of liquid cooling, which are widely used, both offering advantages over traditional air-based solutions. These include:
Direct-to-Chip
Direct-to-chip cooling utilizes internal channels that enable coolant to flow directly in contact with the chip, thereby efficiently absorbing heat. This is a viable solution for reducing heat, as it enhances energy savings, generates less noise pollution, and improves space utilization. Its effectiveness comes from applying the liquid coolant directly to the heat source, thereby removing 70% of the heat generated.
Liquid Immersion Cooling
Liquid-immersion cooling involves submerging electronic components, such as servers, in a non-conductive liquid coolant. The coolant efficiently absorbs heat, creating a cooler environment.
Liquid immersion cooling is available in two forms: single-phase and two-phase. Single-phase immersion does not include any form of “phase change.” The coolant remains liquid as it circulates through a heat exchanger and is pumped back at lower temperatures. Whereas the two-phase immersion cooling involves the coolant boiling, leading to a “phase change” from liquid to gas.
Both methods are advantageous in terms of energy efficiency, space optimisation, noise pollution, and overall help regulate temperatures in data centers.
What Liquid Is Used in Liquid Cooling?
The liquid used in liquid cooling depends on the system, and each comes with its own shipping rules:
- Water-glycol mixes are standard in direct-to-chip loops, as glycol lowers the freezing point and slows corrosion.
- Dielectric fluids, such as synthetic oils, are used in single-phase immersion because they don’t conduct electricity.
- Engineered fluorinated fluids are used in two-phase immersion for their low boiling points. Many fall under PFAS restrictions that are tightening, particularly in the EU.
Every coolant needs a safety data sheet, and some are classed as dangerous goods in transit.
How Far Can Data Center Cooling Innovate?
Data center cooling is getting creative. Talks have been underway about floating data centers in city canals in the Netherlands, using natural water to keep the servers chilled. Not only could this cut costs, but it would also reduce lag times thanks to its close location to users. However, is this just a clever concept, or is it the future of sustainable cooling?
The Challenges of Transporting Liquid Cooling Systems
Despite the clear benefits, moving liquid cooling agents from point A to B is far from simple, but instead comes with its own set of logistical hurdles.
Firstly, many of these materials must be handled under strict temperature-controlled conditions and packaged in containers that are both pressure-resistant and leak-proof. Failing to meet these requirements can result in equipment damage, shipment delays, or environmental hazards.
Additionally, some liquid cooling agents are classified as sensitive materials, subject to additional import controls and licensing requirements. This is especially relevant when shipping to countries with stringent environmental or chemical safety laws.
The bottom line is that ensuring full compliance with these regulations requires in-depth knowledge of local import rules, certifications, and documentation standards.
How TecEx Has Transported Liquid Cooled Server Racks
TecEx recently transported liquid-cooled GB200s to Iceland, fulfilling an urgent request from a client about deploying a data center.
TecEx was able to act as the Importer of Record, gathering the correct licensing required for the highly regulated liquid cooling agents.
Our careful packaging and transportation further enabled us to protect the highly sensitive goods, ensuring they arrived in Iceland without delay.
How We Can Help Ship Liquid Cooling Systems
Partnering with an experienced Importer of Record (IOR) can help you overcome challenges and expand your global reach more efficiently. Here’s how an IOR like TecEx can support your business:
- Regulatory Expertise: We are skilled in navigating international trade regulations, ensuring your liquid-cooled equipment meets all import requirements.
- Streamlined Customs Clearance: With established relationships and a deep understanding of local customs procedures, we reduce the risk of delays.
- Financial Protection: We assume the role of importer, protecting you from financial risks like unexpected taxes or fines.
- Global Network: We have a presence in multiple countries, enabling swift market entry without the need for you to establish local legal entities.
- Focus on Core Business: By outsourcing import complexities to us, you can concentrate on developing and selling advanced liquid cooling solutions.
As data centers continue to expand globally, the need for efficient data center cooling solutions has never been greater. Whether you are a tech provider shipping high-value liquid-cooled equipment across borders or a data center sourcing large volumes of cooling agents to prevent overheating, TecEx ensures your goods are delivered securely, compliantly, and without disruption.
Ready to Power the World’s Data Centers?
Managing heat is crucial to maintaining a stable data center environment and protecting vital equipment. Whether you are considering relocating your gear to cooler areas or incorporating the latest liquid cooling technology, we can provide a tailored solution to meet your needs.
Don’t let regulatory hurdles or logistical challenges hold you back. Expand your reach, grow your business, and play a crucial role in advancing data center cooling technology.