System intervention for coolant distribution unit

Abstract

A system and method for monitoring the water quality of a coolant distribution system by measuring water within a conduit of the coolant distribution system via a sensor. The method includes generating, via the sensor, data indicative of a quality of the water within the conduit. The method includes determining, via an electronic processor, that a quality of the water within the conduit is below a predetermined threshold. The method includes, in response to the mass of the water within the conduit being below the predetermined threshold, controlling, via the electronic processor, an injection system to inject an additive solution into the water in the conduit.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 709,228, filed October 18, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to system intervention for a coolant distribution unit. Background Technology

[0004] A coolant distribution unit (CDU) is a critical component of a cooling system, such as those operating within a data center, and is designed to efficiently circulate liquid coolant through a network of pipes to remove heat from servers and other information technology (IT) equipment. The primary function of the CDU is to maintain a consistent flow of the cooling liquid (such as water or a water-based solution) to absorb heat generated by the operating hardware. As the coolant circulates through the data center, it absorbs heat from servers and other equipment. The warmed coolant then returns to the CDU, where it can pass through heat exchangers to transfer the absorbed heat to the secondary cooling system. In many cases, this secondary system is connected to the building's central cooling system, which can dissipate heat using coolers or cooling towers.

[0005] In some cases, data centers include external heat exchange units located outside the main building. These external units can be used for a variety of purposes, such as improving energy efficiency or enabling heat recovery. For example, in colder climates, external heat exchangers may use cool outdoor air to cool returning coolant, thereby reducing the load on mechanical cooling systems. Alternatively, in some applications, excess heat can be captured and reused to heat nearby buildings or other industrial processes.

[0006] CDUs can be susceptible to failure conditions such as water quality issues or pipe leaks. For example, over time, water quality can be compromised by biological materials and mineral components. Microorganisms such as bacteria and algae can proliferate in the coolant system, forming biofilms that reduce heat transfer efficiency and potentially clog small passages in heat exchangers or server cooling plates. Mineral components such as calcium, magnesium, copper sulfate, and silver sulfate can cause scale formation on pipe walls and heat exchange surfaces. This scaling not only reduces the system's thermal efficiency but also restricts coolant flow. Additionally, dissolved minerals can cause corrosion in metal components, leading to the formation of metal oxides that can circulate in the system and damage sensitive equipment. These water quality problems ultimately result in reduced cooling performance, increased energy consumption, a higher risk of system failure, or costly maintenance and equipment replacement.

[0007] Another such failure condition is a leak in the coolant system's piping network. Leaks can have a severe negative impact on coolant flow and overall system performance. Even small leaks can lead to a gradual loss of coolant volume, reducing the system's ability to maintain proper pressure and flow rates. This can result in inadequate cooling in certain areas of the data center, potentially creating hotspots and increasing the risk of equipment overheating. Larger leaks can cause sudden pressure drops, triggering an emergency shutdown of the cooling system to prevent pump damage. In addition to impairing cooling efficiency, leaks can introduce air into the system, causing cavitation that disrupts coolant flow and reduces heat transfer efficiency. Furthermore, if a leak occurs in an area with electrical equipment, it poses a significant risk of short circuits and equipment damage. Introducing contaminants through a leak can also degrade water quality, as previously mentioned, exacerbating the problems discussed in previous paragraphs. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, this paper describes systems and methods for resolving and preempting potential failure conditions, thereby allowing for more efficient and effective use of the CDU.

[0009] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method for monitoring the water quality of a coolant distribution system, the method comprising measuring the water within pipes of the coolant distribution system via a sensor. The method further comprises: generating data via the sensor indicating the quality of the water within the pipes; determining via an electronic processor that the quality of the water within the pipes is below the predetermined threshold; and, in response to the quality of the water within the pipes being below the predetermined threshold, controlling an injection system via the electronic processor to inject an additive solution into the water within the pipes.

[0010] In some aspects, the quality of the water within the pipeline includes measurements of the biological material in the water. In some aspects, the additive solution includes a biocidal agent configured to reduce the biological material in the water.

[0011] In some aspects, the quality of the water within the pipeline includes measurements of the minerals in the water. In some aspects, the additive solution includes chemicals formulated to reduce the accumulation of minerals in the water.

[0012] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method for controlling a coolant distribution system, the method comprising: measuring fluid pressure within a conduit of the coolant distribution system via a sensor; generating data via the sensor indicating a pressure level within the conduit; determining via an electronic processor that the pressure level within the conduit is below the predetermined threshold; disconnecting the conduit from a conduit network via the electronic processor in response to the pressure level being below the predetermined threshold; and controlling a valve of a vacuum tank via the electronic processor to generate a negative pressure within the conduit.

[0013] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method for controlling a coolant distribution system connected to a piping network, the method comprising: measuring a coolant leakage condition of the coolant distribution system via a sensor; generating data indicating the coolant leakage condition via the sensor; determining, in response to the data, via an electronic processor, that a coolant leakage exists in the piping network; and controlling one or more components of the piping network via the electronic processor.

[0014] In some aspects, this disclosure relates to a coolant dispensing unit comprising: a housing; a piping network at least partially supported within the housing and configured to deliver coolant, the piping network including one or more leak detection sensors configured to measure coolant leakage; an injection system fluidly coupled to the piping network and configured to inject an additive solution into the coolant within the piping; and an electronic processor supported within the housing and configured to control the operation of one or more elements of the piping network, wherein the electronic processor is configured to determine whether a leak has occurred in the piping of the piping network, and wherein the electronic processor is configured to determine the mass of coolant within the piping network and control the injection system to inject the additive solution.

[0015] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a diagram of the coolant distribution unit.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A diagram of the components of the coolant distribution unit.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A diagram of the components of the coolant distribution unit.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 System diagram of the coolant distribution unit.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram of a coolant distribution system combined with a data center.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the process for measuring the water quality in the coolant distribution unit.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the process in response to system events within the coolant distribution unit. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The scope and applicability of the invention detailed below extend beyond the specific construction details, component arrangements, and implementation methods described or depicted herein. It should be understood that the invention can be implemented through various alternative embodiments, implementation paths, and practical applications, which are not limited to those explicitly outlined in the following description or drawings.

[0024] Before explaining any embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited in their application to the details of the configuration and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. Embodiments can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” and variations thereof is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms “installation,” “connection,” “support,” and “linkage,” and variations thereof are used broadly and cover direct and indirect installation, connection, support, and linking.

[0025] Additionally, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for the purposes of discussion, may be shown and described as if most components were implemented solely in hardware. However, those skilled in the art, and upon reading this detailed description, will recognize that in at least one embodiment, the electronic aspects may be implemented in software (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium) capable of being executed by one or more processing units, such as microprocessors and / or application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”). Therefore, it should be noted that embodiments may be implemented using multiple hardware and software-based devices and multiple different structural components. For example, “server,” “computing device,” “controller,” “processor,” etc., described in the specification may include one or more processing units, one or more computer-readable medium modules, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connectors (e.g., system buses) for connecting components.

[0026] Relative terms used in conjunction with quantities or conditions, such as “about,” “approximately,” “basically,” etc., will be understood by a person skilled in the art to include the stated value and have a meaning defined by the context (e.g., the term includes at least the degree of error associated with measurement accuracy, the tolerance associated with a particular value [e.g., manufacturing tolerance, assembly tolerance, usage tolerance, etc.]). Such terms should also be considered to disclose a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. For example, the statement “from about 2 to about 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4.” Relative terms may refer to the indicated value plus or minus a percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10% or more).

[0027] It should be understood that although some of the accompanying figures show hardware and software located within a particular device, these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. Functions described herein as being performed by one component can be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Similarly, functions performed by multiple components can be combined and performed by a single component. In some embodiments, the components shown can be combined or divided into separate software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, instead of being located within and performed by a single electronic processor, logic and processing can be distributed among multiple electronic processors. Regardless of how they are combined or divided, hardware and software components can reside on the same computing device or can be distributed among different computing devices connected by one or more networks or other suitable communication links. Similarly, components described as performing specific functions can also perform additional functions not described herein. For example, a device or structure "configured" in a certain way is configured at least in this manner, but can also be configured in a manner not explicitly listed.

[0028] For ease of description, some or all of the example systems presented herein are illustrated using a single example of each of their component sections. Some examples may not describe or show all the components of the system. Other examples may include more or fewer of each of the components shown, may combine some components, or may include additional or alternative components.

[0029] Figure 1 This is an illustration of a coolant distribution unit (CDU) 100 including a housing 105 (also called a cabinet, rack, shelf, or frame), the housing 105 having walls 110 and a door 115. The door 115 opens outwards, thereby allowing access to the internal components of the CDU 100 (in... Figures 2 to 3 (Shown in more detail below). Housing 105 also includes a piping interface 120 for connecting CDU 100 to a coolant piping network. The coolant piping network may be integrally formed within a building (such as a data center) and / or modularly arranged to connect to servers or other electronic devices to provide fluid for cooling. Human-Machine Interface (HMI) 125 is located on one of the doors 115 of CDU 100.

[0030] The HMI 125 may include various inputs and outputs, such as: a touchscreen for direct interaction; physical buttons or keypads for haptic control; or support for external keyboards and mice. In some cases, the HMI 125 may include a voice command interface, a barcode scanner, an RFID reader, or biometric input (such as fingerprint or retinal scan) to facilitate access authorization.

[0031] HMI 125 also includes a display screen 130 for displaying information. In some cases, HMI 125 also includes status indicators or speakers for emitting audible statuses, such as alarms or fault detection warnings. In some cases, HMI 125 also includes light projection elements for projecting images or light onto the ceiling and / or floor. For example, HMI 125 can project different colors of light onto the ceiling to indicate the status of CDU 100, such as, for example, green light for operation, yellow light for service requests, and red light for inactivity. CDU 100 also includes a shutdown button 135 for initiating an emergency shutdown of CDU 100.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are the internal components of CDU 100, which together form CDU piping network 101, which delivers one or more coolants through CDU 100 and into the piping network. CDU 100 includes: a primary control valve 200 for controlling the flow of coolant within the piping network; and an expansion tank 205 and a reservoir 210 for storing coolant fluid distributed throughout the piping network. As the coolant circulates through the system, primary filter 300 and secondary filter 215 capture and remove solid particles, debris, and contaminants from the coolant. Primary filter 300 is attached to removable filter 305 for easy disposal of such captured contaminants. CDU 100 also includes a secondary filter 220 for redundant filtration. Primary flow meter 310 and secondary flow meter 225 are used to measure the rate at which coolant flows through the system. The measured flow rate information is transmitted to controller 405 (see...). Figure 4 ), and can be displayed on screen 130.

[0033] CDU 100 also includes an automatic vent 230 to continuously remove air and other gases that accumulate in the coolant system. Isolation valve 235 allows specific sections of the cooling system to be isolated from the rest, providing access for maintenance, repair, and system modifications. Temperature sensor 240 measures the temperature of the coolant at various points within CDU 100, and pressure sensor 245 monitors the pressure within the piping network. Both temperature sensor 240 and pressure sensor 245 generate and output data, which is sent to controller 405. In some cases, additional sensors are located within CDU 100. For example, in this embodiment, water quality sensor 270 continuously monitors various parameters of the coolant, such as pH level, particulate matter, and conductivity. In other embodiments, water quality sensors may monitor corrosion inhibitors, dissolved oxygen levels, and the presence of contaminants such as biological tissue. Data on water quality is transmitted to controller 405, which is configured to control the injection of additives and / or additive solutions to correct any water quality imbalances. In this embodiment, the water quality sensor is located within the CDU. In other embodiments, water quality sensor 270 and other sensors may be located in a separate unit from the CDU, located elsewhere in the facility where the CDU is located. Water quality sensor 270 will be fluidly coupled to the CDU. In other embodiments, water quality sensor 270 and other sensors will be integrated into a separate housing that is removably fluidly coupled to the CDU.

[0034] Additionally, the water quality sensor 270 can be configured to track the operating duration of the CDU 100. Based on measured water quality parameters or at predetermined time intervals, the controller 405 can trigger the operation of the injection system 275. The injection system 275 introduces a precise amount of additives (such as chemicals or biocides) into the coolant. The additives maintain optimal coolant conditions, thereby preventing problems such as corrosion or microbial growth, and ensuring effective and timely treatment based on actual system needs or planned maintenance programs. In some examples, the injection system 275 can be triggered by an input on the HMI 125.

[0035] The CDU 100 also includes a heat exchanger 250 that facilitates the transfer of heat from a coolant fluid to another fluid without mixing them. For example, in the CDU 100, the heat exchanger 250 transfers heat from warm coolant returned from data center equipment to a cooling water loop or refrigerant system. Figure 5 Further details regarding heat exchange are provided in the document.

[0036] The CDU 100 also includes one or more pumps 260 (e.g., two pumps), each controlled by a variable frequency drive (“VFD”) 255. The VFD 255 controls the flow of coolant fluid by adjusting the speed of the pumps 260 to match the actual cooling demand of the system. These pumps can be operated simultaneously. In other cases, these pumps can operate in a configuration where one pump generates the entire coolant flow to the system, while the second pump is not in operation but provides backup in case of pump 260 failure or malfunction, thus ensuring continuous cooling. In some cases, these pumps 260 are replaceable. A pump check valve 315 is connected to each pump 260 to prevent reverse flow of coolant when the pump is not in operation. A fill / replenish pump 265 allows for the initial filling of the entire cooling system with coolant during initial coolant installation or after maintenance requiring coolant drainage.

[0037] CDU 100 includes power and data interfaces that provide power and data communication to power housing 325 and control housing 400. In some cases, housing 105 includes lift-up holes 330 that allow the attachment of cables or clips to lift CDU 100, thereby allowing for quick installation, maintenance, or removal.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic system diagram of CDU 100. As previously described, CDU 100 includes: an HMI 125 with a screen 130; a power supply housing 325; a control housing 400; a power and data interface 320; and a pump 260. In some cases, an additional pump, such as a secondary pump 260, is similarly connected. The power supply housing 325 houses a power system 410 that powers the various electronic components within CDU 100, such as temperature and pressure sensors, control valves, pumps, and controllers. CDU 100 also includes a vacuum tank 335, which is coupled to a piping network to help control the pressure of the coolant within the piping network. Figure 7 The control of vacuum tank 335 is described in more detail.

[0039] In some examples, a leak sensor (or multiple leak sensors) is included to monitor and detect leaks within the piping network or within components of CDU 100. The leak sensor may be located within or near vacuum tank 335, or may cooperate with an automatic top feed shut-off portion of vacuum tank 335. In some cases, the leak sensor works in conjunction with pressure sensor 245. In one embodiment, pressure sensor 245 is a leak sensor and detects a rapid drop in pressure. Controller 405 utilizes one or more of the pressure sensors 245 to monitor pressure in the piping network and to monitor rapid changes in pressure at one location (wherein, pressure changes at another location are small / no change). Upon detection and / or determination of a leak, controller 405 controls the pump to reduce, slow, or stop the leak. Controller 405 may take other actions, including automatic top feed shut-off, actuating a vacuum pressure reducing valve to open a valve to the pressure reducing tank, etc.

[0040] Leakage sensors can be, for example, leakage sensor lines or leakage sensor cages. In the case of a leakage sensor line, the sensor can be located within or around the CDU 100, or it can be located along the piping network or near a server connected to the piping network.

[0041] The control housing 400 houses a controller 405, which includes multiple electrical and electronic components that distribute power, provide operational control, and protect components and modules within the controller 405 or the CDU 100. For example, the controller 405 specifically includes a processing unit 415 (e.g., an electronic processor, microprocessor, microcontroller, or other suitable programmable device), a memory 420, an input unit 425, and an output unit 430. The processing unit 415 is implemented using known computer architectures, such as modified Harvard architecture, von Neumann architecture, etc. The processing unit 415, memory 420, input unit 425, and output unit 430, as well as the various modules connected to the controller 405, are connected via one or more control and / or data buses. In view of the invention described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more control and / or data buses are used for interconnection and communication between various modules and components. In some embodiments, the controller 405 is partially or entirely implemented on a semiconductor (e.g., a field-programmable gate array [“FPGA”] semiconductor) chip, such as a chip developed through a register transfer level (“RTL”) design process.

[0042] Memory 420 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium that includes, for example, a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and data storage area may include combinations of different types of memory, such as: read-only memory (“ROM”); random access memory (“RAM”) (e.g., dynamic RAM [“DRAM”], synchronous DRAM [“SDRAM”], etc.); electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”); flash memory, hard disk, SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic storage devices. Processing unit 415 is connected to memory 420 and executes software instructions that can be stored in the RAM of memory 420 (e.g., during execution), the ROM of memory 420 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as another memory or disk). Software included in the implementation of CDU 100 can be stored in memory 420 of controller 405. Software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. In other configurations, controller 405 includes additional, fewer, or different components.

[0043] Figure 5 This is an illustration of a CDU 100 combined with servers in a data center. The CDU 100 is connected to one or more server racks 500 via a network of pipes 505. A large-diameter supply pipe carries cooled coolant fluid from the CDU 100. A main supply line 510 branches into smaller secondary pipes 515 extending along rows of server racks 500. Each secondary pipe 515 connects to a separate server rack. After absorbing heat from the server racks, the warmed coolant is collected by a similar network of return pipes. These return pipes gradually merge into larger-diameter pipes as they return the heated coolant to the CDU 100 for recooling and recirculation. In some examples, one or more additional CDUs 100 are connected to the pipe network.

[0044] In some cases, CDU 100 is also connected to an external heat exchanger 520 via a secondary piping network 525. Warm coolant from piping network 505 enters CDU 100, and CDU 100 transfers heat to the secondary piping network 525 via heat exchanger 250. The heated fluid in the secondary loop is then pumped to the external heat exchanger 520. After releasing its heat to the external environment, the cooled fluid returns to CDU 100.

[0045] Figure 6This is a flowchart of process 600 for measuring the fluid mass of CDU 100. As previously mentioned, the fluid mass can directly affect cooling efficiency. Therefore, CDU 100 advantageously measures the fluid mass of unwanted substances and provides additives to neutralize and remove unwanted substances. Process 600 can be executed automatically by controller 405 (e.g., via processing unit 415) or in response to input received via HMI 125. Process 600 includes step 605, in which the coolant mass is measured by water quality sensor 270. Water quality sensor 270 can use electrochemical, optical, or spectroscopic methods to measure various parameters. For example, the pH element within water quality sensor 270 can include an ion-selective electrode to measure hydrogen ion concentration, while the conductivity element within water quality sensor 270 can detect the presence of dissolved ions that can indicate chemical accumulation. Optical elements within water quality sensor 270 can use UV-Vis spectroscopy to detect organic compounds or microorganisms, and fluorescent elements within water quality sensor 270 can identify specific biomarkers and / or biological materials.

[0046] Water quality sensor 270 then generates data at step 610, including various parameters or characteristics detected within the coolant, and transmits the data to controller 405. Controller 405 then uses these parameters or characteristics at step 615 to determine water quality. Controller 405 then compares the measured parameters to several thresholds and optionally performs a trend analysis of the water quality. For example, pH levels can be compared to a predetermined range indicating acceptable levels of acidity or alkalinity in the coolant fluid. Trend analysis can provide an indication that the coolant will stabilize over time or whether additives are needed to correct coolant quality. Similarly, controller 405 analyzes conductivity to detect any anomalous ion concentrations that could indicate chemical buildup or contamination. Controller 405 also assesses biocidal levels by measuring the chemical signature of biomarkers and / or by analyzing data from water quality sensor 270 indicating biological activity. Particle measurements can be correlated with system operating time to identify any anomalous aggregations of debris. It should be understood that the steps of process 600 can be performed in any order. For example, before determining the quality of water using various water parameters or characteristics, the controller 405 can compare the measured parameters with several thresholds, or optionally perform a trend analysis of the water quality.

[0047] In some cases, controller 405 runs algorithms stored in memory 420 that compare different parameters within the data, such as how pH can affect the efficacy of certain biocides, or how temperature affects chemical reaction rates. When controller 405 has determined that the fluid quality needs correction, controller 405 activates and controls injection system 275 at step 620 to provide additives to the coolant to counteract the identified imbalance. For example, biocides can be added to the coolant to prevent the growth of microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi. These biocides can be, for example, oxidizing agents such as chlorine or bromine compounds, or non-oxidizing biocides such as isothiazolone or quaternary ammonium compounds. To combat scale formation and mineral deposits, injection system 275 can add scale inhibitors, such as phosphonates or polycarboxylates, to the coolant. Corrosion inhibitors (such as azoles for copper protection or molybdates for iron metals) can be added by injection system 275 to prevent the deterioration of metal components in the system. The injection system 275 can add pH adjusters such as sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid to maintain the coolant within the optimal pH range, such as between 7 and 9, to minimize corrosion and optimize the effectiveness of other additives.

[0048] Injection system 275 can add oxygen scavengers such as sodium sulfite to reduce dissolved oxygen levels and further prevent corrosion within the piping network 505. In some examples, the piping network may require freeze protection, and injection system 275 can provide glycol-based additives. In some examples, injection system 275 adds dispersants or surfactants to keep particles suspended in the coolant, thus preventing them from settling and forming deposits. These suspended particles are then more easily captured by primary filter 300 and secondary filter 215 or by filters 305, 220. The specific combination and concentration of additives provided by injection system 275 are controlled by CDU 100 based on real-time sensor data. In some cases, additives and thresholds are set via HMI 125.

[0049] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of process 700 in response to a low-pressure event within CDU 100. As previously described, CDU 100 includes a vacuum tank 335 coupled to piping network 505. In the event of coolant leakage from piping network 505, controller 405 is configured to activate vacuum tank 335, thereby creating negative pressure and preventing coolant leakage. Process 700 includes step 705, wherein the pressure within the piping of piping network 505 is measured by one or more of the pressure sensors 245.

[0050] The pressure sensor then generates data at step 710, including the total pressure level of the coolant fluid within the piping network 505. This data is then transmitted to the controller 405, which analyzes the pressure data, comparing the measured pressure level to a predetermined threshold and / or historical trends. If the controller 405 determines that the pressure level is below the predetermined threshold or exhibits an abnormal rate of decline (e.g., the pressure drops at a rate exceeding the threshold), then at step 715, the controller 405 interprets this as a leak of coolant fluid from the piping network 505.

[0051] In response to this determination, controller 405 shuts off pump 260 to stop actively pushing coolant through the system. Then, in step 720, controller 405 isolates CDU 100 from piping network 505, thereby preventing gravity-driven coolant loss from the larger system. In some cases, disconnection of CDU 100 from piping network 505 is achieved by closing the valve connecting CDU 100 to piping network 505. Then, in step 725, controller 405 connects vacuum tank 335 to piping network 505, thereby preventing gravity-driven coolant loss from piping network 505. Vacuum tank 335 is configured to be maintained at a negative pressure, which creates a suction effect that pulls coolant away from the leak point and towards the tank. By reversing the pressure gradient within piping network 505, the amount of coolant that could escape through the leak is reduced.

[0052] Pressure sensor 245 continues to monitor the system during process 700, allowing controller 405 to disconnect vacuum tank 335 and reconnect CDU 100 to piping network 505 when the pressure level returns to an optimal level (e.g., determined to be above a predetermined threshold). Process 700 allows maintenance personnel to respond to and repair leaks before significant coolant loss, thereby minimizing potential damage and reducing system downtime.

[0053] Process 700 can be similarly executed using a leak sensor. For example, instead of measuring the pressure of the piping network 505 via pressure sensor 245, a leak sensor line can be used to detect coolant leaks from the piping network 505. When controller 405 determines that there is a coolant leak in the piping network 505, controller 405 similarly executes process 700, closing the valve connecting CDU 100 to the piping network 505 and connecting vacuum tank 335 to the piping network 505. Alternatively, process 700 can be similarly executed using a combination of sensors, such as both pressure sensor 245 and leak sensor line.

[0054] Therefore, this paper provides, in particular, systems and methods for system intervention in coolant distribution units.

Claims

1. A method for monitoring the water quality of a coolant distribution system, the method comprising: The properties of the water in the pipes of the coolant distribution system are measured via sensors; Data indicating the quality of the water in the pipe is generated based on the characteristics via the sensor; The electronic processor determines that the quality of the water in the pipe is below a predetermined threshold. as well as In response to the water quality in the pipeline being below the predetermined threshold, the injection system is controlled via the electronic processor to inject an additive solution into the water in the pipeline.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The properties of the water within the pipeline include measurements of the biological materials present in the water.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The additive solution includes a biocidal agent configured to reduce the biological material in the water.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The properties of the water within the pipeline include measurements of the minerals in the water.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The additive solution includes chemicals formulated to reduce the accumulation of the minerals in the water.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The characteristics of the water in the pipeline include a measurement of dissolved oxygen in the water.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The additive solution includes an oxygen scavenger configured to reduce the dissolved oxygen.

8. A method for controlling a coolant distribution system connected to a piping network, the method comprising: The coolant leakage status of the coolant distribution system is measured via sensors; Data indicating the coolant leakage condition is generated via the sensor; In response to the data, a coolant leak is determined via an electronic processor within the coolant distribution system; One or more components of the coolant distribution system are controlled via the electronic processor.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The sensor in question is a leakage sensor line.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The sensor is a leakage sensor cage.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The sensor is a pressure sensor.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic processor determines the presence of a coolant leak based on rapid pressure changes at a location within the coolant distribution system.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic processor, in response to the coolant leak, controls the piping of the coolant distribution system by disconnecting the pipe from the piping network.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic processor controls the valves of the vacuum tank to generate negative pressure within the pipes of the piping network.

15. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The electronic processor controls the pumps of the coolant distribution system to reduce, slow down, or stop the coolant leakage.

16. A coolant distribution unit, comprising: case; A coolant distribution unit piping network, the coolant distribution unit piping network including one or more pipes at least partially supported in the housing and configured to deliver coolant, the coolant distribution unit piping network being fluidly connected to a building piping network, the coolant distribution unit piping network including one or more leak detection sensors configured to measure coolant leakage conditions; An injection system, fluidly connected to the coolant distribution unit piping network, is configured to inject an additive solution into the coolant within the piping. as well as An electronic processor, supported within the housing, is configured to control the operation of one or more elements of the coolant distribution unit piping network. The electronic processor is configured to determine whether a leak has occurred in the pipes of the building's piping network, and The electronic processor is configured to determine the mass of coolant within the piping network and to control the injection system to inject the additive solution.

17. The coolant distribution unit according to claim 16, wherein, The mass of the coolant is one of the following measurements: a measurement of biological material, a measurement of minerals, and a measurement of dissolved oxygen.

18. The coolant distribution unit according to claim 16, wherein, The additive solution is one of a biocide and a chemical configured to reduce the accumulation of minerals in the coolant.

19. The coolant distribution unit according to claim 16, wherein, The injection system is supported within the housing.

20. The coolant distribution unit according to claim 16, wherein, The electronic processor determines whether the leak has occurred by monitoring the pressure within the building's piping network.

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