Data center waste heat supply system

By designing a waste heat supply system for data centers, a heating loop is coupled with a cooler and a heat exchanger, and combined with a thermal storage unit and a thermoelectric power generation component. This solves the problem of energy waste caused by the direct discharge of waste heat from data centers, and realizes the reuse of energy and the efficient operation of the heating system.

CN122237080APending Publication Date: 2026-06-19ZHEJIANG PROVINCIAL DEV & PLANNING INST
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
ZHEJIANG PROVINCIAL DEV & PLANNING INST
Filing Date
2026-05-20
Publication Date
2026-06-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The direct discharge of waste heat from data centers leads to energy waste, especially during the winter heating season in northern regions, requiring additional energy expenditure for heating, resulting in energy waste and increased load pressure on the heating system.

Method used

Design a waste heat supply system for a data center, including a heat exchange unit, a supply line and a heat utilization unit. Heat conversion and transfer are achieved through coolers and heat exchangers. The system utilizes waste heat from the data center to heat the surrounding area and can be combined with a heat storage unit and a thermoelectric power generation component for heat storage and cascade utilization.

Benefits of technology

Without affecting the heat dissipation effect of the data center, the waste heat was reused, improving energy efficiency, reducing the load on the traditional heating system, and improving heating quality and system stability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This application provides a waste heat supply system for data centers, relating to the field of waste heat utilization technology, to address, to some extent, the energy waste caused by the direct discharge of waste heat from data centers. It mainly includes a data center, a heat exchange unit, supply lines, and heat-using units. The supply lines include a main water supply pipe, a main return water pipe, branch supply water pipes, and branch return water pipes. The heat exchange unit includes a cooler and a heat exchanger. The main return water pipe is connected to the cooler, the cooler's outlet is connected to the heat exchanger's first inlet, the data center's outlet is connected to the heat exchanger's second inlet, the heat exchanger's first outlet is connected to the main supply water pipe, and the heat exchanger's second outlet is connected to the data center's inlet. Branch supply water pipes are distributed on the main supply water pipe and are connected to both the main supply water pipe and the heat-using units' inlets. Branch return water pipes are distributed on the main return water pipe and are connected to both the main return water pipe and the heat-using units' return ends.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of waste heat utilization technology, and in particular to a waste heat supply system for data centers. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of information technology, the scale and performance of data centers continue to increase, making their high energy consumption problem increasingly prominent. Statistics show that approximately 43% of the electricity consumed by data centers is used for cooling systems. A large amount of heat generated by server operation is directly discharged into the external environment through the cooling system, resulting in enormous energy waste. How to effectively recover and utilize this waste heat has become a key challenge in building green and low-carbon data centers.

[0003] At the same time, due to the cold winters in northern regions, centralized heating is required. Therefore, a large amount of energy is needed to provide heating for data centers and surrounding factories. As a result, the waste heat of data centers is not only not effectively utilized, but external heat sources also need to be introduced to heat the surrounding areas, resulting in a huge waste of energy.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a waste heat supply system for data centers to address the problems existing in current technologies to some extent. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a waste heat supply system for data centers, so as to solve, to some extent, the problem of energy waste caused by the direct discharge of waste heat from data centers.

[0006] This invention provides a waste heat heating system for a data center, comprising a data center, a heat exchange unit, a supply line, and a heat-using unit. The supply line includes a main water supply pipe, a main return water pipe, branch water supply pipes, and branch return water pipes. The heat exchange unit includes a cooler and a heat exchanger. The main return water pipe is connected to the cooler. The outlet of the cooler is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger. The outlet of the data center is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger. The first outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the main water supply pipe, and the second outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the data center. The branch water supply pipes are distributed on the main water supply pipe and are connected to the inlet of the main water supply pipe and the heat-using unit. The branch return water pipes are distributed on the main return water pipe and are connected to the return of the main return water pipe and the heat-using unit.

[0007] The data center waste heat heating system provided in this application further includes a heat storage unit, which includes a heat storage tank, a heat storage inlet water assembly, and a heat storage return water assembly. The supply line also includes a heat exchange water supply pipe, which is connected between the heat exchanger and the main water supply pipe. One end of the heat storage inlet water assembly is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe, and the other end is connected to the inlet end of the heat storage tank. One end of the heat storage return water assembly is connected to the outlet end of the heat storage tank, and the other end is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe.

[0008] Specifically, the data center waste heat heating system provided in this application further includes an energy storage unit, which includes a battery and a conversion mechanism. The conversion mechanism includes a cold source pipeline, a heat source pipeline, and a thermoelectric power generation component. The inlet end of the cold source pipeline is connected to the cooler, the outlet end of the cold source pipeline is connected to the first inlet end of the heat exchanger, the inlet end of the heat source pipeline is connected to the outlet end of the data center, and the outlet end of the heat source pipeline is connected to the second inlet end of the heat exchanger. The thermoelectric power generation component is disposed between the cold source pipeline and the heat source pipeline, and is connected to the battery circuit.

[0009] Furthermore, the thermoelectric power generation component includes multiple thermoelectric power generation cells, which are connected in series and connected to the battery circuit; each of the multiple thermoelectric power generation cells includes a P-type semiconductor, a metal sheet, and an N-type semiconductor, and the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor are connected on one side through the metal sheet.

[0010] Furthermore, the data center waste heat heating system provided in this application also includes a water supply pump and a heating water supply valve; the water supply pump and the heating water supply valve are both arranged on the pipeline between the cooler and the energy storage unit, and are arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the coolant.

[0011] A branch switch valve is installed on the branch water supply pipe.

[0012] Specifically, the data center waste heat supply system provided in this application also includes a liquid-cooled pump, which is arranged on the pipeline connecting the heat exchanger and the data center.

[0013] Furthermore, the heat storage water inlet assembly includes a heat storage water inlet pipe and a heat storage switch valve, and the heat storage water return assembly includes a heat storage water supply pipe and an auxiliary switch valve; the heat storage water inlet pipe connects the heat exchange water supply pipe and the heat storage tank, and the heat storage switch valve is arranged on the heat storage water inlet pipe; the heat storage water supply pipe connects the heat storage tank and the heat exchange water supply pipe, and the auxiliary switch valve is arranged on the heat storage water supply pipe.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a check valve, which is arranged on the heat exchange water supply pipe.

[0015] The cooling medium in the supply line is one or more of the following: water, silicone oil, mineral oil, hydrofluorocarbon, hydrofluoroether, hydrofluoroolefin, unsaturated hydrofluoroether, perfluoroalkane, perfluoroamine, perfluoropolyether, perfluoroolefin, perfluoroalkenylamine, perfluoroalkenyl ether, and metallocene-catalyzed polyalphaolefin.

[0016] Compared with existing technologies, the data center waste heat heating system provided by this invention has the following advantages: The waste heat heating system for data centers provided by this invention includes a data center, a heat exchange unit, a supply line, and a heat-using unit. The supply line includes a main water supply pipe, a main return water pipe, branch water supply pipes, and branch return water pipes. The heat exchange unit includes a cooler and a heat exchanger. The main return water pipe is connected to the cooler. The outlet of the cooler is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger. The outlet of the data center is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger. The first outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the main water supply pipe, and the second outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the data center. The branch water supply pipes are distributed on the main water supply pipe and are connected to the main water supply pipe and the inlet of the heat-using unit. The branch return water pipes are distributed on the main return water pipe and are connected to the main return water pipe and the return of the heat-using unit.

[0017] Analysis reveals that the supply lines in this application perform heat transfer functions, including a main water supply pipe, a main return water pipe, branch water supply pipes, and branch return water pipes. The main water supply pipe serves as the heating medium transport pipe, distributing the heated high-temperature medium to each heat-using unit. The main return water pipe acts as a return water collection pipe, collecting the low-temperature medium returning from each heat-using unit. The heat exchange unit realizes heat conversion and transfer, including a cooler and a heat exchanger. The cooler's function is to pre-cool the return water, further reducing the temperature of the medium entering the heat exchanger, thereby enabling more efficient heat absorption from the data center side within the heat exchanger.

[0018] The main return water pipe is connected to the cooler, allowing the low-temperature return water after heat release from the heat-using unit to first enter the cooler. The cooler's outlet is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger, where the pre-cooled medium enters the cold side of the heat exchanger. Simultaneously, the data center's outlet is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger, where the high-temperature coolant generated by the data center enters the hot side of the heat exchanger. Inside the heat exchanger, heat exchange occurs between the hot and cold media. The heat exchanger's first outlet is connected to the main water supply pipe, where the heated medium enters the heating network. The heat exchanger's second outlet is connected to the data center's inlet, where the cooled coolant returns to the data center to continue absorbing heat, forming a closed-loop circulation system on the data center side.

[0019] Branch water supply pipes are distributed on the main water supply pipe and connected to the main water supply pipe and the inlet of the heating unit, introducing high-temperature medium into each heating unit. Branch return water pipes are distributed on the main return water pipe and connected to the main return water pipe and the return water end of the heating unit, collecting the low-temperature medium after heat release back to the main return water pipe.

[0020] In actual operation, when the heat-using unit generates heat demand, the system starts the circulation. The data center continues to operate and generates waste heat. The coolant carries the heat into the heat exchanger and exchanges heat with the low-temperature medium from the heating return water.

[0021] Understandably, since the heat generated by a data center does not produce heat that can radiate over a wide area like that of a traditional heating unit such as a thermal power plant, the heating system provided in this application is also used as a separate heating unit to radiate the heat generated by the data center to the surrounding area. Of course, it can also be used as an auxiliary heating unit to supplement the heating input in conjunction with traditional heating units and improve the heating quality.

[0022] Therefore, the heating system provided in this application solves the energy waste problem caused by the direct discharge of waste heat from the data center cooling system. By effectively coupling the liquid cooling circuit and the heating circuit through a heat exchanger, the waste heat is transferred to the heating network to supply the heat-using units without affecting the heat dissipation effect of the data center, realizing the reuse of energy, significantly improving the overall energy utilization efficiency of the system, and also reducing the load pressure of the traditional heating system to a certain extent. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall layout of a data center waste heat supply system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the thermoelectric heating component in a data center waste heat supply system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the working state of a data center waste heat supply system provided in this embodiment of the invention, where the heat demand of the heat-using unit is less than the waste heat output of the data center. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of a data center waste heat supply system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, where the heat demand of the heat-using unit exceeds the waste heat output of the data center.

[0025] In the diagram: 1-Main water supply pipe; 101-Branch water supply pipe; 102-Branch switch valve; 2-Main return water pipe; 201-Branch return water pipe; 3-Heat exchanger; 4-Data center; 5-Heat unit; 6-Water supply pump; 7-Heating water supply valve; 8-Battery; 9-Thermoelectric generator assembly; 901-Thermoelectric generator plate; 9011-P-type semiconductor; 9012-N-type semiconductor; 9013-Metal sheet; 902-Heat source pipeline; 903-Cold source pipeline; 10-Heat storage tank; 11-Heat storage inlet pipe; 1101-Heat storage switch valve; 12-Heat storage return water pipe; 1201-Auxiliary switch valve; 13-Heat exchange water supply pipe; 1301-Check valve; 14-Liquid cooling pump; 15-Cooler. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely represents selected embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0027] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of the invention is in use. They are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0028] Furthermore, terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" do not imply that components must be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that they can be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal than "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly tilted.

[0029] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "connect" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0030] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the relevant items listed and any combination of any two or more items.

[0031] For ease of description, spatial relation terms such as “above,” “upper,” “below,” and “lower” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element and another as shown in the accompanying drawings. Such spatial relation terms are intended to include not only the orientation depicted in the drawings but also the different orientations of the device during use or operation.

[0032] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is also intended to include the plural form. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” enumerate the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0033] Variations in the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may occur due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the accompanying drawings, but include changes in shape that may occur during manufacturing.

[0034] The features of the examples described herein can be combined in various ways that will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. Furthermore, although the examples described herein have various constructions, other constructions are possible, as will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis that they can be implemented by those skilled in the art. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0035] like Figure 1As shown, the present invention provides a waste heat heating system for a data center 4, including a data center 4, a heat exchange unit, a supply line, and a heat-using unit 5; the supply line includes a main water supply pipe 1, a main return water pipe 2, a branch water supply pipe 101, and a branch return water pipe 201; the heat exchange unit includes a cooler 15 and a heat exchanger 3; the main return water pipe 2 is connected to the cooler 15; the outlet of the cooler 15 is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger 3; the outlet of the data center 4 is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger 3; the first outlet of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the main water supply pipe 1; and the second outlet of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the inlet of the data center 4; the branch water supply pipe 101 is distributed on the main water supply pipe 1 and is connected to the inlet of the main water supply pipe 1 and the heat-using unit 5; the branch return water pipe 201 is distributed on the main return water pipe 2 and is connected to the return of the main return water pipe 2 and the heat-using unit 5.

[0036] Compared with existing technologies, the data center waste heat supply system provided by this invention has the following advantages: The waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided by this invention has a heat transmission line, including a main water supply pipe 1, a main return water pipe 2, branch water supply pipes 101 and branch return water pipes 201. The main water supply pipe 1 serves as the heating medium transmission pipe, distributing the heated high-temperature medium to each heat-using unit 5. The main return water pipe 2 serves as the return water collection pipe, collecting the low-temperature medium returning from each heat-using unit 5. The heat exchange unit realizes the conversion and transfer of heat, including a cooler 15 and a heat exchanger 3. The cooler 15 pre-cools the return water, further reducing the temperature of the medium entering the heat exchanger 3, thereby enabling more efficient absorption of heat from the data center 4 side in the heat exchanger 3.

[0037] The main return water pipe 2 is connected to the cooler 15, allowing the low-temperature return water after heat release from the heat-using unit 5 to first enter the cooler 15. The outlet of the cooler 15 is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger 3, and the pre-cooled medium enters the cold side of the heat exchanger 3. Simultaneously, the outlet of the data center 4 is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger 3, and the high-temperature coolant generated by the data center 4 enters the hot side of the heat exchanger 3. Within the heat exchanger 3, heat exchange occurs between the hot and cold media. The first outlet of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the main water supply pipe 1, and the heated medium enters the heating network. The second outlet of the heat exchanger 3 is connected to the inlet of the data center 4, and the cooled coolant returns to the data center 4 to continue absorbing heat, forming a closed-loop circulation on the data center 4 side.

[0038] Branch water supply pipes 101 are distributed on the main water supply pipe 1 and are connected to the main water supply pipe 1 and the inlet of the heat-using unit 5, introducing high-temperature medium into each heat-using unit 5. Branch return water pipes 201 are distributed on the main return water pipe 2 and are connected to the main return water pipe 2 and the return water end of the heat-using unit 5, collecting the low-temperature medium after heat release back to the main return water pipe 2.

[0039] In actual operation, when the heat-using unit 5 generates heat demand, the system starts the cycle. The data center 4 continues to operate and generates waste heat. The coolant carries the heat into the heat exchanger 3 and exchanges heat with the low-temperature medium from the heating return water.

[0040] Understandably, since the heat generated by data center 4 does not produce heat that can radiate over a wide area like traditional heating units such as thermal power plants, the heating system provided in this application is also used as a separate heating unit to radiate the heat generated by data center 4 to the surrounding area. Of course, it can also be used as an auxiliary heating unit to supplement the heating input in conjunction with traditional heating units and improve the heating quality.

[0041] Therefore, the heating system provided in this application solves the energy waste problem caused by the direct discharge of waste heat from the cooling system of data center 4. By effectively coupling the liquid cooling circuit and the heating circuit through the heat exchanger 3, the waste heat is transferred to the heating network to supply the heating unit 5 without affecting the heat dissipation effect of data center 4, realizing the reuse of energy, significantly improving the overall energy utilization efficiency of the system, and also reducing the load pressure of traditional heating systems to a certain extent.

[0042] Optionally, such as Figure 1 Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided in this application also includes a heat storage unit, which includes a heat storage tank 10, a heat storage inlet water assembly, and a heat storage return water assembly. The supply line also includes a heat exchange water supply pipe 13, which is connected between the heat exchanger 3 and the main water supply pipe 1. One end of the heat storage inlet water assembly is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe 13, and the other end is connected to the inlet end of the heat storage tank 10. One end of the heat storage return water assembly is connected to the outlet end of the heat storage tank 10, and the other end is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe 13.

[0043] The heat storage tank 10 in this application serves as a heat storage device, capable of storing high-temperature media when there is excess waste heat and releasing the stored heat to supplement heating when there is insufficient waste heat, thereby achieving peak shaving and valley filling of the heating load. To connect to the heat storage unit, the supply line in this application also includes a heat exchange water supply pipe 13, which connects between the heat exchanger 3 and the main water supply pipe 1. One end of the heat storage water inlet assembly is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe 13, with the connection point located between the outlet of the heat exchanger 3 and the main water supply pipe 1. The other end of the heat storage water inlet assembly is connected to the water inlet of the heat storage tank 10, thus enabling excess high-temperature media to be introduced into the heat storage tank 10 for storage.

[0044] One end of the heat storage return water component is connected to the outlet of the heat storage tank 10, and the other end is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe 13, so that the high-temperature medium stored in the heat storage tank 10 can be sent back to the heating main pipe.

[0045] In practical use, there are two operating conditions: 1. When the heat load required by the heat-using unit 5 is less than or equal to the waste heat generated by the data center 4, part of the high-temperature heating medium generated by the heat exchanger 3 enters the main water supply pipe 1 through the heat exchange water supply pipe 13 to supply the heat-using unit 5, and the other part enters the heat storage tank 10 for storage through the heat storage water inlet assembly.

[0046] 2. When the residual heat of data center 4 is less than the heat load of heat-using unit 5, it is still insufficient to supply all the high-temperature medium generated by heat exchanger 3 to heat-using unit 5. At this time, heat storage tank 10 releases the high-temperature medium stored in it to heat exchange water supply pipe 13 through heat storage return water component. After merging with the medium produced by heat exchanger 3, they enter the main water supply pipe 1 together to meet the heat demand.

[0047] Therefore, this application, through the addition of a heat storage unit, enables the system to regulate its heat load, effectively resolving the heat supply and demand imbalance caused by fluctuations in the operating load of Data Center 4 or seasonal changes in heating demand. The presence of the heat storage tank 10 expands the adjustable range of the system's heat load, alleviates load fluctuations during the heating process, and improves the stability and reliability of system operation. Simultaneously, the heat storage function allows for more efficient utilization of the waste heat from Data Center 4, reducing heat waste caused by supply-demand mismatch and further improving the overall energy efficiency of the system.

[0048] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided in this application also includes an energy storage unit. The energy storage unit includes a battery 8 and a conversion mechanism. The conversion mechanism includes a cold source pipeline 903, a heat source pipeline 902, and a thermoelectric generator assembly 9. The inlet end of the cold source pipeline 903 is connected to the cooler 15, the outlet end of the cold source pipeline 903 is connected to the first inlet end of the heat exchanger 3, the inlet end of the heat source pipeline 902 is connected to the outlet end of the data center 4, and the outlet end of the heat source pipeline 902 is connected to the second inlet end of the heat exchanger 3. The thermoelectric generator assembly 9 is disposed between the cold source pipeline 903 and the heat source pipeline 902, and the thermoelectric generator assembly 9 is connected to the battery 8 by a circuit.

[0049] This application connects the inlet of the cold source pipe 903 to the cooler 15 and the outlet of the cold source pipe 903 to the first inlet of the heat exchanger 3, so that the low-temperature return water pre-cooled by the cooler 15 first flows through the cold source pipe 903 to provide a cold end for the thermoelectric power generation component 9.

[0050] The inlet of the heat source pipe 902 is connected to the outlet of the data center 4, and the outlet of the heat source pipe 902 is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger 3, so that the high-temperature coolant discharged from the data center 4 first flows through the heat source pipe 902 to provide a heat source for the thermoelectric power generation component 9.

[0051] Since the thermoelectric power generation component 9 is located between the cold source pipe 903 and the heat source pipe 902, it can generate electricity by utilizing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the pipes. Furthermore, because the thermoelectric power generation component 9 in this application is connected to the battery 8, the generated electrical energy can be stored in the battery 8 through the charging circuit.

[0052] In actual operation, when low-temperature return water enters the cold source pipeline 903 and high-temperature coolant enters the heat source pipeline 902, a temperature difference is formed on both sides of the thermoelectric power generation component 9, which drives the charge carriers to move in a directional manner to generate current, realizing the direct conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy.

[0053] Since the electrical energy stored in battery 8 can be used to drive various pumps, valves, and coolers 15 within the system, the waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided in this application can solve the problem of ineffective utilization of temperature differences between media at different temperatures during the recovery process. By integrating a thermoelectric conversion device on the pipeline upstream of heat exchanger 3, the system utilizes the temperature difference to generate electricity before the medium enters heat exchanger 3, achieving cascaded utilization of waste heat and realizing a graded energy utilization mode of generating electricity first and then exchanging heat, thus improving the quality and economy of waste heat recovery. Simultaneously, the generated electrical energy can be used for the system's own electrical equipment, reducing dependence on external power and decreasing the overall energy consumption of the system operation.

[0054] Preferably, such as Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 As shown, the thermoelectric power generation component 9 in this application includes a plurality of thermoelectric power generation pieces 901, which are connected in series and connected to the battery 8 circuit; each of the plurality of thermoelectric power generation pieces 901 includes a P-type semiconductor 9011, a metal sheet 9013 and an N-type semiconductor 9012, and the P-type semiconductor 9011 and the N-type semiconductor 9012 are connected on one side through the metal sheet 9013.

[0055] In the P-type semiconductor 9011, the majority carriers are holes, while in the N-type semiconductor 9012, the majority carriers are electrons. When the thermoelectric generator 901 is in contact with the high-temperature coolant in the heat source pipe 902 and the low-temperature return water in the cold source pipe 903, a temperature field is established on both sides. Driven by the temperature difference, holes in the P-type semiconductor 9011 migrate from the high-temperature end to the low-temperature end, and electrons in the N-type semiconductor 9012 also migrate from the high-temperature end to the low-temperature end. Since the P-type semiconductor 9011 and the N-type semiconductor 9012 are electrically connected at their ends through a metal sheet 9013, the directional movement of the two types of charge carriers creates a potential difference in the closed loop, generating a direct current. After multiple thermoelectric generators 901 are connected in series, the voltages of multiple individual generators can be superimposed to obtain a higher output voltage to meet the needs of battery charging and electrical equipment.

[0056] The thermoelectric generator 901 is installed close to the outer walls of the cold source pipe 903 and the heat source pipe 902 to ensure good thermal contact and maximize the transfer of temperature difference. P-type and N-type semiconductors 9012 are paired and connected on one side by a metal plate 9013. Because the entire structure is stationary during operation, it operates quietly, has a long lifespan, and is easy to maintain, making it better suited for scenarios involving long-term continuous operation of data centers and heating systems.

[0057] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided in this application also includes a water pump 6 and a heating water supply valve 7; the water pump 6 and the heating water supply valve 7 are both arranged on the pipeline between the cooler 15 and the energy storage unit, and are arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the coolant.

[0058] The water supply pump 6 provides circulation power to drive the heating return water to flow in the pipeline, and the heating water supply valve 7 controls the opening and closing of the pipeline to realize the start and stop control of the system. Both the water supply pump 6 and the heating water supply valve 7 are arranged on the pipeline between the cooler 15 and the energy storage unit, and are arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the coolant. That is, under the action of the water supply pump 6, the coolant flows from the main return water pipe 2 to the cooler 15, first through the cooler 15, then pressurized by the water supply pump 6, and finally flows through the heating water supply valve 7 into the subsequent pipeline.

[0059] When the heating unit 5 generates heat demand, the water supply pump 6 is turned on, driving the low-temperature return water in the main return water pipe 2 into the cooler 15. At the same time, the heating water supply valve 7 is opened. The low-temperature return water, pre-cooled by the cooler 15, is driven by the water supply pump 6 to pass through the heating water supply valve 7 and the cold source pipe 903 into the heat exchanger 3. In the heat exchanger 3, the low-temperature return water fully exchanges heat with the high-temperature coolant of the data center 4, and the temperature rises to become high-temperature hot water, which is supplied to the heating unit 5.

[0060] At the same time, such as Figure 1 As shown, the waste heat supply system for data center 4 provided in this application also includes a liquid-cooled pump 14, which is arranged on the pipeline connecting the heat exchanger 3 and the data center 4. The high-temperature coolant flowing out of the data center 4 releases heat in the heat exchanger 3 and then its temperature decreases to become a low-temperature coolant, which is driven by the liquid-cooled pump 14 to flow back to the data center 4 to continue absorbing heat.

[0061] It is understandable that, such as Figure 1 As shown, a branch switch valve 102 is arranged on the branch water supply pipe 101 in this application.

[0062] Since there are many heating units 5, multiple branch water supply pipes 101 can be connected to the main water supply pipe 1 according to the specific number of heating units 5. Each branch water supply pipe 101 can be connected to a linear switching valve, so that each branch water supply pipe 101 can be individually controlled through the branch switching valve 102. That is, when some heating units 5 have heating needs, the corresponding branch switching valve 102 can be opened to allow the high-temperature medium in the main water supply pipe 1 to enter the corresponding branch water supply pipe 101, thereby achieving precise heating.

[0063] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the thermal storage water inlet assembly in this application includes a thermal storage water inlet pipe 11 and a thermal storage switch valve 1101, and the thermal storage water return assembly includes a thermal storage water supply pipe and an auxiliary switch valve 1201; the thermal storage water inlet pipe 11 connects the heat exchange water supply pipe 13 and the thermal storage tank 10, and the thermal storage switch valve 1101 is arranged on the thermal storage water inlet pipe 11; the thermal storage water supply pipe connects the thermal storage tank 10 and the heat exchange water supply pipe 13, and the auxiliary switch valve 1201 is arranged on the thermal storage water supply pipe.

[0064] In this application, the thermal storage switch valve 1101 controls the opening and closing of the thermal storage inlet pipe 11, and the auxiliary switch valve 1201 controls the opening and closing of the thermal storage supply pipe. Therefore, in actual operation, when the excess heat of the data center 4 is greater than the heat demand, the thermal storage switch valve 1101 is opened, and part of the high-temperature heating medium flowing out from the heat exchanger 3 enters the thermal storage tank 10 for storage through the thermal storage inlet pipe 11. At this time, the auxiliary switch valve 1201 remains closed, and part of the heat is stored.

[0065] When the residual heat in data center 4 is insufficient, the heat storage switch valve 1101 is closed and the auxiliary switch valve 1201 is opened. The high-temperature medium stored in the heat storage tank 10 flows out through the heat storage water supply pipe and the auxiliary switch valve 1201, and merges into the heat exchange water supply pipe 13. Together with the heating medium flowing out of the heat exchanger 3, it enters the main water supply pipe 1 to supply the heating unit 5. In this application, the heat storage inlet pipe 11 and the heat storage water supply pipe are responsible for injecting water into the heat storage tank 10 and drawing water from the heat storage tank 10, respectively. The two switch valves independently control the two paths, operating independently without interference. This realizes flexible control of the bidirectional flow of heat between the heat storage tank 10 and the heating system, improving the operability and reliability of the system operation.

[0066] Preferably, such as Figure 1 As shown, the waste heat heating system for data center 4 provided in this application also includes a check valve 1301, which is arranged on the heat exchange water supply pipe 13.

[0067] The check valve 1301 in this application is arranged on the heat exchange water supply pipe 13 between the connection position of the heat storage return water pipe 12 and the heat exchange water supply pipe 13 and the main water supply pipe 1, so as to ensure that the cooling medium can smoothly enter the main water supply pipe 1, and the cooling medium in the main water supply pipe 1 will not flow back into the heat exchange water supply pipe 13, thus ensuring the stability of the overall system operation.

[0068] Preferably, the cooling medium in the supply line of this application can be one or more of water, silicone oil, mineral oil, hydrofluorocarbon, hydrofluoroether, hydrofluoroolefin, unsaturated hydrofluoroether, perfluoroalkane, perfluoroamine, perfluoropolyether, perfluoroolefin, perfluoroalkenylamine, perfluoroalkenyl ether, and metallocene-catalyzed polyalphaolefin.

[0069] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A waste heat supply system for a data center, characterized in that, This includes data centers, heat exchange units, supply lines, and heat-using units; The supply line includes a main water supply pipe, a main return water pipe, branch water supply pipes, and branch return water pipes. The heat exchange unit includes a cooler and a heat exchanger. The main return water pipe is connected to the cooler. The outlet of the cooler is connected to the first inlet of the heat exchanger. The outlet of the data center is connected to the second inlet of the heat exchanger. The first outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the main water supply pipe. The second outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the inlet of the data center. The branch water supply pipes are distributed on the main water supply pipe and are connected to the main water supply pipe and the water inlet of the heating unit. The branch return water pipes are distributed on the main return water pipe and are connected to the main return water pipe and the return water end of the heating unit.

2. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heat storage unit, which includes a heat storage tank, a heat storage water inlet assembly, and a heat storage water return assembly; The supply line also includes a heat exchange water supply pipe, which is connected between the heat exchanger and the main water supply pipe. One end of the heat storage water inlet assembly is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe, and the other end is connected to the water inlet of the heat storage tank. One end of the heat storage water return assembly is connected to the water outlet of the heat storage tank, and the other end is connected to the heat exchange water supply pipe.

3. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an energy storage unit, which includes a battery and a conversion mechanism, the conversion mechanism including a cold source pipeline, a heat source pipeline and a thermoelectric power generation component; The inlet end of the cold source pipeline is connected to the cooler, the outlet end of the cold source pipeline is connected to the first inlet end of the heat exchanger, the inlet end of the heat source pipeline is connected to the outlet end of the data center, and the outlet end of the heat source pipeline is connected to the second inlet end of the heat exchanger. The thermoelectric power generation component is disposed between the cold source pipeline and the heat source pipeline, and the thermoelectric power generation component is connected to the battery circuit.

4. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The thermoelectric power generation component includes multiple thermoelectric power generation cells, which are connected in series and connected to the battery circuit. Each of the aforementioned thermoelectric generators includes a P-type semiconductor, a metal sheet, and an N-type semiconductor, wherein the P-type semiconductor and the N-type semiconductor are connected on one side through the metal sheet.

5. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes water pumps and heating water supply valves; The water pump and the heating water valve are both arranged on the pipeline between the cooler and the energy storage unit, and are arranged sequentially along the flow direction of the coolant.

6. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, A branch switch valve is installed on the branch water supply pipe.

7. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a liquid cooling pump, which is arranged on the piping connecting the heat exchanger and the data center.

8. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal storage water inlet assembly includes a thermal storage water inlet pipe and a thermal storage switch valve, and the thermal storage water return assembly includes a thermal storage water supply pipe and an auxiliary switch valve. The heat storage inlet pipe connects the heat exchange supply pipe and the heat storage tank, and the heat storage switch valve is arranged on the heat storage inlet pipe; The heat storage water supply pipe connects the heat storage tank and the heat exchange water supply pipe, and the auxiliary switch valve is arranged on the heat storage water supply pipe.

9. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a check valve, which is arranged on the heat exchange water supply pipe.

10. The data center waste heat supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling medium in the supply line is one or more of the following: water, silicone oil, mineral oil, hydrofluorocarbon, hydrofluoroether, hydrofluoroolefin, unsaturated hydrofluoroether, perfluoroalkane, perfluoroamine, perfluoropolyether, perfluoroolefin, perfluoroalkenylamine, perfluoroalkenyl ether, and metallocene-catalyzed polyalphaolefin.