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The second technique used was the VF simulation-based approach. The VF is a detailed, 3D model that can simulate the space, power and cooling behavior of the actual facility, including the thermal interactions between the room infrastructure, cooling system, cabinets and individual units of IT equipment. Throughout the life cycle, from initial design, construction, commissioning, to day-to-day operations, the VF can replace inadequate rules-of-thumb with scientific precision to manage resilience and efficiency of the mission critical facility.

The VF analysis showed clearly that exhaust recirculation within cabinets was the pressing problem, which was causing high IT equipment inlet temperatures and the need to overcool the chilled water system. Noland found that blanking and containment curtains actually increased inlet temperatures for many units of equipment in Lab 7D. The VF was used to guide the tactical placement of floor grilles and blanking panels that eliminated the worst of the cabinet and room-level hot spots.

The resulting 8ºF increase in chilled water set point provided a 30% reduction in power required for cooling and $120,000 per year in energy cost savings. There was no decrease in equipment resilience as determined by inlet air temperature. Based on the success of this application, Cisco Systems has adopted the VF approach to maximize resilience and efficiency over time.

For more information, visit www.futurefacilities.com or contact Sherman Ikemoto, General Manager, Future Facilities Inc., Ph: 408-436-7701 or 408-497-3671, email: sherman.ikemoto@futurefacilities.com.