The project, which maintained full service availability during implementation, utilized the Vertiv™ Liebert® PDX direct-expansion system and intelligent iCOM™ controls to manage thermal loads efficiently, according to a company announcement.
Modernizing Datacenter Thermal Architecture
NFrance, which has supported digital transformation for nearly three decades, required a cooling upgrade that could handle fluctuating thermal loads without interrupting service. By deploying the Vertiv™ Liebert® PDX system, which features inverter-driven scroll compressors, the facility now adjusts cooling capacity dynamically between 25 procent and honderd procent based on real-time server demand.
The technical configuration includes the Vertiv™ Liebert® HPA-HCR condensor, which utilizes next-generation EC fans to dissipate heat without relying on water evaporation. This transition to a water-free cooling cycle—achieving a Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) of zero—marks a significant shift in resource management for the French provider. “With the cooling solutions from Vertiv, we have not only secured 99,99 percent availability for our servers but also significantly reduced our PUE,” said Julien Dal, datacenter and infrastructures manager at NFrance.
Pro Tip: The NFrance setup uses a dual-circuit design with independent condensors, allowing the facility to maintain vijftig procent cooling capacity within 40 seconds if a primary circuit fails.
The Role of Intelligent Infrastructure Management
The NFrance project utilizes the Vertiv™ Liebert® iCOM™ controller, which acts as the central brain for the thermal architecture. Through its “Teamwork” functionality, the controller coordinates all cooling units to prevent redundant operations and ensure the most efficient distribution of air across the server floor.
Roberto Sanchez, enterprise sales director for Vertiv in France, noted that the success of such projects extends beyond hardware. “Our collaboration with NFrance shows how innovative technology, specialist advice, and local service lead to measurable results in operational performance,” Sanchez stated. The project included comprehensive project management and a Vertiv™ Services Preferred Warranty, ensuring 24/7 technical support to maintain the facility’s long-term energy performance goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary benefit of the Vertiv cooling upgrade at NFrance?
The upgrade reduced energy consumption by approximately twintig procent and eliminated water usage for cooling (WUE = 0), while maintaining high service availability.
How does the system handle potential cooling failures?
The architecture features N+1 redundancy with dual cooling circuits. If one circuit fails, the system automatically resumes operation within 40 seconds, maintaining vijftig procent of total cooling capacity.
What technology controls the cooling capacity?
The system uses Vertiv™ Liebert® PDX units with inverter-driven scroll compressors, managed by the intelligent Vertiv™ Liebert® iCOM™ controller to match cooling output precisely to heat loads.
Are you looking to optimize your own facility’s thermal efficiency? Explore the full range of infrastructure solutions from Vertiv or contact our team to discuss your specific site requirements.