Cooling is typically the second-largest line item in a data center's power bill, and the technology has moved fast — liquid cooling, containment, and free cooling have all become mainstream options in the last decade. This course covers CRAC/CRAH fundamentals, liquid cooling technologies (direct-to-chip, immersion), containment strategies, free cooling, and the thermal analysis behind PUE optimization.
You'll work through cost-benefit analysis of different cooling technologies and energy modeling concepts, using case studies of facilities that achieved 30–50% energy improvements through better cooling strategy — not just newer equipment.
The goal is a cooling optimization strategy you can actually implement: knowing which technology fits your facility's density and climate, and how to build the business case for the investment.
What You'll Learn
- Compare CRAC/CRAH, liquid cooling, and free cooling for a given facility profile
- Design hot/cold aisle containment strategies that reduce mixing losses
- Apply thermal analysis and modeling concepts to identify cooling inefficiencies
- Calculate and benchmark PUE, and identify realistic optimization targets
- Build a cost-benefit case for a cooling technology upgrade
Course Modules
CRAC/CRAH System Fundamentals
How computer room air conditioning/handling units actually work, and where they fall short at scale.
Liquid Cooling Technologies
Direct-to-chip and immersion cooling — when the density numbers justify the switch.
Containment Strategies & Airflow Management
Hot/cold aisle containment done right, and the common mistakes that undercut it.
Free Cooling & Hybrid Systems
Using outside air and hybrid systems to cut mechanical cooling load.
Thermal Analysis & Modeling
Reading airflow and heat-load data to find where cooling capacity is wasted.
PUE Optimization & Energy Economics
Turning PUE from a reporting metric into an optimization target.
Who This Course Is For
Audience: HVAC technicians, facilities engineers, and anyone accountable for PUE.