Liquid immersion cooling system launched in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has launched a Liquid Immersion Cooling system in its research computing facility. This new technology reportedly reduces energy consumption for cooling by over 80%, while creating an optimal operating environment that enhances computing performance at a lower temperature.
High performance computing (HPC) is vital for scientific research that involves analysing large amounts of data or complex algorithms. However, it consumes a significant amount of electricity and excessive heat can hinder performance.
The initial batch of eight liquid immersion cooling tanks is capable of housing up to around 280 CPU and GPU servers for HPC. This immersion cooling technology will also be applied to a new eight-storey data centre for HPC set to be completed on the HKUST campus in 2026. With a more powerful computing system, a broad spectrum of AI-driven tasks that previously required days to process could now be completed in hours.
Unlike traditional rack-level air cooling systems that rely on air conditioning and fans, this technology submerges hardware into a specially designed water-like coolant, reducing cooling energy consumption by 80% and achieving power usage effectiveness (PUE) below 1.1. In the long run, its heat dissipation could extend the lifespan of hardware and lower the operational costs of data centres.
The adoption of the new cooling technology could lead to a 45% reduction of carbon emissions compared to traditional rack-level air cooling. The non-corrosive, biodegradable water coolant also has a lifespan exceeding 10 years, further reducing the ecological impact of the infrastructure. Dr Samuel Kwan, Director of HKUST’s Information Technology Services Centre, said the liquid immersion cooling technology is an exciting addition to the campus.
“In line with our goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, we plan to implement this technology in our new data centre, further empowering HKUST researchers to accelerate their work while safeguarding the environment,” Kwan said.
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