Selecting the Right Cooling Technology Vendor for Your Data Center

This research highlight evaluates the top thermal management solution providers in the data center cooling sector, focusing on their innovation and implementation strategies. Leading vendors, such as Vertiv, Johnson Controls, and Schneider Electric, are assessed based on their ability to deliver energy-efficient cooling systems and services, leveraging advanced technologies such as AI-driven predictive maintenance, interoperability with other platforms, and circular practices. 

Efficient thermal management is critical for the operational success of Data Centers (DCs). With rising costs and increasing demands for energy-efficient solutions, data center operators are turning to innovative cooling technologies to improve performance, stability, and life span. This Research Highlight evaluates the leading thermal management solution providers in the data center industry, assessing their innovation and implementation strategies.

 

 

Data Center Cooling Innovation Criteria

The following innovation criteria assess the capabilities and strategies of thermal management vendors in addressing the challenges of DC cooling:

• Thermal Management Technology: Vendors with robust end-to-end capabilities, including cooling hardware (for infrastructure and server-level cooling), deployment support, and software solutions, either in-house or through partnerships, are positioned well.
• Reliability, Resilience, and Data Center Optimization: Solutions that minimize downtime and optimize existing workloads are highly valued. Vendors that offer predictive maintenance, AI-driven software alerts, and built-in dashboards for troubleshooting score well in this category.
• Interoperability with Other Platforms: Vendors that enable seamless integration of their thermal management solutions with other software platforms, such as Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM), Building Management Systems (BMSs), or digital twins, score highly. Interoperability with industry-standard connectivity protocols is key for operational efficiency.
• Platform Features: Unique technologies and capabilities that set vendors apart, such as hardware efficiency, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based optimization, energy-saving innovations, digital twins, or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, are crucial for differentiation.
• End of Life: Vendors offering solutions with circular practices, such as refrigerant recycling, hardware part reuse, and retrofit options, are leading in this category. Such initiatives reduce operational carbon emissions and support the development of green data centers.

 

Top Innovators of Data Center Cooling Tech

1. Vertiv (Score: 81.8)

Vertiv excels in delivering comprehensive thermal management solutions, including air and liquid cooling systems, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems, and integrated software for remote monitoring. The company leverages partnerships with companies like Avocent and Cybex for Information Technology (IT) management and uses Liebert's range of cooling systems to optimize energy efficiency. In 2023, Vertiv acquired CoolTera, a leader in liquid cooling solutions, strengthening its position in this segment. Vertiv is also recognized for its commitment to circular practices, including its Trade-In Program for legacy UPS systems and efforts to localize supply chains to reduce emissions.

2. Johnson Controls (Score: 78.0)

Johnson Controls integrates advanced cooling solutions with its broader Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), automation, and security services, providing flexible and efficient solutions for data centers. The company’s YORK HVAC chillers and Silent-Aire hyperscale cooling systems are widely used in DC applications. Johnson Controls' innovative approach combines predictive maintenance with its Connected Equipment Portal (CEP), enabling better asset management and improved operational efficiency. Its circular initiatives include low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants and sustainability targets, with an emphasis on reducing embodied carbon in its products.

3. Schneider Electric (SE) (Score: 76.8)

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform offers a flexible approach to DC cooling, providing both air and liquid cooling solutions depending on customer needs. Schneider Electric’s acquisition of Motivair Corporation strengthens its portfolio in liquid cooling for High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems. The company's EcoStruxure IT portfolio provides remote monitoring and management, helping DC operators achieve maximum energy efficiency and minimize downtime. Schneider Electric's sustainability goals include reducing carbon emissions and waste, with a focus on circular economy practices, including the reuse of equipment and components.

 

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Implementation Criteria

The following implementation criteria evaluate the practical application of thermal management solutions in data centers:

• Commercial Success and Market Share: This criterion measures the market reach, customer growth, and number of projects executed by each vendor. Vendors with a large share of the DC cooling market and a strong customer base are highly ranked.
• Geographical Reach: Vendors operating in multiple regions with a strong understanding of global regulations and local market trends are well-positioned to deliver effective solutions and after-sales support.
• Deployment, Operation, and Maintenance Support: Vendors providing comprehensive deployment, operation, and maintenance support, either in-house or through strategic partnerships, are preferred. Ongoing maintenance, predictive monitoring, and quick troubleshooting capabilities are key considerations.
• Allied Products and Services: Vendors offering additional services or products, such as DCIM software, power systems, fire safety, and security, to support overall data center operations score well.
• Partnerships & Case Studies: The number and scale of global deployments, as well as partnerships with other DC operators or solution providers, demonstrate the vendor’s ability to deliver scalable and effective solutions.
• Operations Time to Value: Vendors with a proven ability to deliver financial and operational benefits quickly are preferred. Time-to-value metrics are important for DC operators looking to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

 

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Top Implementers of Data Center Cooling Solutions

Johnson Controls (Score: 81.5)

Johnson Controls, a global leader in building technology, offers comprehensive DC cooling solutions, including YORK® HVAC systems and Silent-Aire hyperscale cooling. The company operates in over 150 countries and serves hyperscalers, co-locators, and large enterprises. Johnson Controls provides integrated solutions that focus on energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprints, including its OpenBlue technology, which has led to significant cost and energy savings in hyperscaler facilities. The company’s broad global presence and innovative approach have positioned it as a top implementer in the DC cooling sector. Noteworthy projects include Telia Finland’s renewable energy-powered DC and a major retrofit for a large enterprise cloud provider, where Johnson Controls’ systems significantly reduced construction time and costs.

Vertiv (Score: 80.5)

Vertiv's strong global presence and deep expertise in critical infrastructure make it a leader in DC cooling solutions. With innovative solutions for both air and liquid cooling, the company’s robust deployment strategies and partnerships ensure comprehensive coverage across markets. Vertiv’s ability to integrate monitoring and predictive maintenance with its cooling solutions enhances uptime and operational efficiency. Notable projects such as Colovore’s Silicon Valley DC hub demonstrate Vertiv’s ability to provide high-density solutions that support emerging technologies like AI and Machine Learning (ML).

Daikin (Score: 75.3)

Daikin has demonstrated significant success with its energy-efficient cooling systems, deploying solutions like the water-cooled chiller systems in Sweden for climate-positive DC operations. The company’s market share in DC cooling has been bolstered by its advanced HVAC technology and geothermal HVAC applications, as seen in its Vermont DC project. Daikin's expanding presence in North America, along with its continued focus on low GWP refrigerants and sustainable energy practices, enhances its reputation as a strong implementer in the global data center market.

Conclusion

To explore detailed insights into the DC cooling solutions offered by the top vendors, download the full competitive ranking now. Gain comprehensive data to help inform your decision-making and sustainability strategies.