Energy-saving analysis of a case data center with a pump-driven loop heat pipe system in different climate regions in China

It is important to cool data centers for improving IT equipment reliability through indoor temperature control. The air conditioning energy consumption is almost 38% of the total energy consumption. Free cooling in cool days is a promising technology for energy conservation. A pump-driven loop heat pipe (PLHP) system for free cooling was developed and installed in a data center project, which has a high energy efficiency ratio (EER) compared to air conditioners. The running performance of the PLHP system in the case project was tested and studied. The fitting rule of EER and outdoor temperature was obtained. The hourly energy savings and payback periods of the PLHP system for different cities of different climate regions in China were analyzed basing on the fitting formula compared to air conditioners. A national distribution map was developed to show the annual energy saving ratio in China. Results show that the PLHP system provides remarkable energy savings and the indoor temperature is remained at 18°C to 25°C. About 74.2% of Chinese cities lie in regions suitable for applications, and the annual energy saving ratio is over 30%. The average payback period for most cities in China is about 3.9 years.