Immersion tank for cooling electronic equipment

Abstract

An immersion tank system includes an outer frame and an immersion tank positioned inside the outer frame. A method for operating the immersion tank system includes inserting a payload into the immersion tank; flowing a source fluid from the external environment through piping connected to the immersion tank to a heat exchanger; cooling a working fluid using the heat exchanger and the source fluid; flowing the working fluid through one or more ports in the immersion tank; filling the immersion tank containing the payload to a predetermined level with the working fluid through one or more ports; transferring heat from the payload to the working fluid; discharging gas and / or liquid from one or more vents defining the top surface of the immersion tank; and operating one or more variable-speed pumps to flow the working fluid for heat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 524,337, filed Jun. 30, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 632,034, filed Apr. 10, 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] Large - scale server systems or high - power - density electronic systems that execute high - density computing generate and / or dissipate a large amount of heat during operation. Further, cooling systems can be beneficial for the thermal management of electronic devices that generate heat as a by - product of their primary function. These servers are often mounted in racks, and fans are incorporated into the system to cool the server racks.

[0003]

[0003] Despite progress in the field of high - density computing systems, improved methods and systems are needed in the art for cooling high - density computing systems.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004]

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to immersion cooling systems, and particularly to thermal management for high - density computing.

[0005]

[0005] According to one embodiment, an immersion tank system includes an outer frame and an immersion tank disposed inside the outer frame. The immersion tank further includes one or more ports, one or more pumps, a control system, one or more sensors, and a heat exchanger.

[0006]

[0006] The immersion tank system may include various optional embodiments. One or more ports may be used to fill and discharge the immersion tank. One or more ports may be located on the surface of the immersion tank. The surface may be the bottom surface of the immersion tank. One or more pumps may be variable speed pumps. The immersion tank system may further include slide rails. The immersion tank system may further include a shock cage located inside the outer frame, and the shock cage may include a front access cover. An impact mount coupled to the outer frame may provide shock absorption for the immersion tank. The immersion tank may slide on the slide rails to move in and out of the shock cage. The immersion tank may further include a sealed access cover. At least one of the one or more sensors may be a leak detection sensor. At least one of the one or more sensors may be a fluid level sensor. At least one of the one or more sensors may be a tank breather integrity sensor. At least one of the one or more sensors may be a fluid quality sensor. The heat exchanger may include a brazed plate heat exchanger. The immersion tank may be vented to an expansion tank.

[0007]

[0007] According to another embodiment, a method for operating a immersion tank system adaptable to multiple environments includes inserting a payload into the immersion tank; flowing a source fluid from the external environment through piping connected to the immersion tank to a heat exchanger; cooling a working fluid using the heat exchanger and the source fluid; flowing the working fluid through one or more ports of the immersion tank; filling the immersion tank containing the payload to a predetermined level with the working fluid through one or more ports; transferring heat from the payload to the working fluid; and discharging gas and / or liquid from one or more vents defining the top surface of the immersion tank. The gas and / or liquid is discharged to an expansion tank coupled to the immersion tank. The method further includes operating one or more variable-speed pumps to flow the working fluid to the heat exchanger. Various steps can be repeated until the payload is removed from the immersion tank.

[0008]

[0008] The method may include various optional embodiments. The method may further include monitoring leaks using one or more control sensors in a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank. The method may further include monitoring an indicator of the working fluid's health using a fluid quality sensor. The method may further include monitoring the fluid level of the working fluid in the expansion tank using a fluid level sensor. The method may further include draining the working fluid from the immersion tank via one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

[0009]

[0009] According to yet another embodiment, a method for accessing an immersion tank system includes providing an immersion tank comprising one or more ports, one or more variable-speed pumps, a control system, one or more control sensors, one or more health sensors, and a heat exchanger. The method further includes removing a shock cage front access panel from a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank, installing a pump and draining working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports, sliding the immersion tank out of the shock cage, removing the immersion tank cover from the immersion tank, and removing the payload from the immersion tank system.

[0010]

[0010] The method may include various optional embodiments. The method may further include monitoring leaks using one or more control sensors in a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank. The method may further include monitoring the health indicators of the working fluid using fluid quality sensors. The method may further include monitoring the fluid level of the working fluid in an expansion tank communicating with the immersion tank using fluid level sensors. The method may further include draining the working fluid from the immersion tank via one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

[0011]

[0011] The present disclosure achieves many advantages over prior art. Embodiments of the present invention implement single-phase immersion cooling that enables increased computational density, reduced power consumption, increased reliability, and reduced ambient noise. Embodiments of the present invention further reduce the footprint of the cooling system and reduce the risk of forward incompatibility with future high-power electronic equipment. Embodiments of immersion cooling systems described herein optimize cabinet space, provide modularity, optimize cooling, and enable higher payload computational density. These embodiments and other embodiments of the present disclosure, along with their numerous advantages and features, will be described in more detail below in conjunction with the corresponding drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This is a block diagram of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] This is a block diagram of the immersion tank shown in Figure 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C] Figure 2A is a block diagram of the fluid subsystem shown in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a side view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a front view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an exploded perspective view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] This is a perspective view of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This is a front perspective view of the fluid subsystem of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6C] This is a rear perspective view of the fluid subsystem of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6D] This is a cross-sectional side view of an immersion tank having a fluid subsystem according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of the method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013]

[0024] This disclosure relates in general to immersion cooling systems, and more particularly to thermal management for high-density computing.

[0014]

[0025] As the demand for high-density computing and storage resources continues to expand, limitations arise regarding available space for expansion, the cost of buildings and equipment, and communication latency. The increasing amount of processing power and storage that can be placed on a single server, the number of servers that can be placed on a single rack, and / or the number of servers and / or rails deployed in a single server farm pose significant thermal problems. As the demand for high-performance embedded systems increases, air cooling technologies cannot keep pace with the shrinking size and increasing capacity of computer hardware. Furthermore, conventional fan-based cooling systems require large amounts of power and associated costs. In addition, cooling electronic components with air requires special consideration of air quality parameters such as temperature, humidity, and particulate matter and contaminants in the air. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provide improved methods and systems related to the cooling of server systems.

[0015]

[0026] This problem is amplified by Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) initiatives. Several commercial markets are implementing immersion technologies in data centers to address computing density and cooling issues. Onboard computing, particularly onboard cloud computing and advanced networking, significantly increases the requirements for computing resources in constrained environments. Onboard may include all surface vessels such as submarines and offshore platforms such as oil drilling rigs. Thus, there is a need for highly computationally powerful systems that can address the constraints of the onboard environment, such as size, power, cooling, weight, shock, and vibration. The systems described herein can be applied to any other mobile or fixed applications using durable edge systems such as oil and gas.

[0016]

[0027] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an immersion tank system for cooling an electronic circuit. The immersion tank system includes an immersion tank. For example, the immersion tank system includes a rugged immersion tank. One or more components of the immersion tank system or the immersion tank are sealed against the environment using a compression gasket, retaining screws, and / or latches that enable portable and transportable operation of the immersion tank. For example, by sealing against the environment, the immersion tank can have a wider range of pitch, roll, and yaw motions compared to conventional immersion tanks that are not equipped to handle a wide range of motions. However, as will be understood by those skilled in the art upon consideration of the present disclosure, embodiments of the systems described herein are also capable of operating in a more stationary but harsh environment. The immersion tank system described herein includes a series of frames that provide resistance to shock and vibration, enabling the use of the immersion tank in relatively unstable environments such as those encountered in on-board operation, in-air operation, operation on a vehicle, etc. For example, the immersion tank may be a rugged immersion tank. The insulation cage, specifically the insulation mounts, described below mitigate shock inputs. In some environments where a less rugged system would fail, this system functions well without the need for additional insulation. For example, the immersion tank may be integrated with a shock insulation cage for operation while racked or unracked. Further, shock insulation and vibration resistance accept commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) systems and / or electronic hardware in addition to custom solutions designed or modified for immersion. The immersion tank described herein is removable from the outer frame and shock cage and, according to at least some embodiments, can be attached to a standard rack such as a naval rack.

[0017]

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an immersion tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rugged immersion tank system. System 100 includes an outer frame 102 that can be attached to a surface within the operating environment of system 100. In this figure, various support mechanisms and / or side walls of outer frame 102 have been removed for clarity. In various embodiments, outer frame 102 can include a sealing gasket assembly and a joint surface to maintain alignment of the various components of outer frame 102 and / or to seal the various components of outer frame 102 against the environment. System 100 further includes a shock cage 104 disposed within outer frame 102. According to various embodiments, shock cage 104 is attached to the inside of outer frame 102. According to at least some embodiments, shock and / or vibration damping components 105 can be used to attach shock cage 104 to outer frame 102 to accommodate relatively unstable environments such as those encountered in on-board operation, in-flight operation, operation on a vehicle, etc.

[0018]

[0029] System 100 includes an immersion tank 106 connected to a fluid subsystem 108. Fluid subsystem 108 includes a heat exchanger 109. Heat exchanger 109 receives source fluid from an external environment, such as relatively cold recirculating water in a ship-mounted system. In other embodiments, heat exchanger 109 receives source fluid from any external source. Heat exchanger 109 cools a working fluid (e.g., a dielectric fluid) using the source fluid in a manner that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the present disclosure. For example, heat exchanger 109 cools the working fluid using the source fluid, and heat exchanger 109 outputs the warmed source fluid.

[0019]

[0030] According to various embodiments, the payload 110 is insertable into the immersion tank 106. In at least some embodiments, the payload 110 is insertable into the immersion tank 106 using a locking rack 112. The locking rack 112 is configured to hold the payload 110 in a vertical position (as shown in Figure 1) to support the payload 110 when the fluid is drained from the payload 110, dried, or otherwise removed. In various embodiments, the fluid is drained from the immersion tank 106 through one or more ports (not shown) until it reaches a smaller volume before the payload 110 is removed from the immersion tank 106. The immersion tank 106 may be mounted on a slide rail 114 that allows the immersion tank 106 to slide in and out of the shock cage 104. For example, the mounting of the immersion tank 106 may conform to the Electronic Industries Alliance standard (EIA-310). According to some embodiments, the immersion tank 106 is positioned on the slide rail 114 to allow access from above. The combination of the slide rail 114 and access from above (e.g., an upper access cover, not shown, sealed to the environment above the immersion tank 106) allows for the installation and / or removal or maintenance of the payload, which is often important to provide the desired cooling capacity. In some embodiments, the system 100 described herein includes a lift mechanism to facilitate the loading and unloading of the payload 110 into and out of the immersion tank 106.

[0020]

[0031] The fluid subsystem 108 may include one or more variable-speed pumps 116 used with piping for flowing working fluid and / or source fluid through system 100. In various embodiments, one or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be constant-speed pumps, or a combination of variable-speed and constant-speed pumps. In at least some embodiments, one or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be used to flow the working fluid to the heat exchanger. The fluid subsystem 108 may further include hose and cable management to optimize space within the shock cage 104 and the outer frame 102.

[0021]

[0032] According to various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 is connected to one or more data and / or power input / output (I / O) cable connectors 118. The I / O cable connectors 118 provide data and / or power I / O to the system 100 in a manner that can be understood by those skilled in the art by examining this disclosure.

[0022]

[0033] In various embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 includes one or more filters 120 for filtering water and / or particulate matter from the working fluid. In at least some embodiments, a filter 120 for the working fluid is provided to provide the removal of moisture and particulate matter. Monitoring of moisture accumulating in the filter 120 may also be provided to give a maintenance warning for replacing the filter canister when the fluid level in the containment reservoir becomes full.

[0023]

[0034] The immersion tank 106 includes one or more vents 122 for discharging gas and / or fluid from the immersion tank 106 to an expansion tank (not shown), and the expansion tank is discharged to a tank breather connected to the expansion tank. For example, the working fluid expands in the immersion tank 106 when the payload 110 is warmed by use and then cooled by the working fluid. As the working fluid expands, gas can be discharged through one or more vents 122 defining the upper surface of the immersion tank 106, as shown in Figure 1. When the working fluid contracts, air is drawn in through a desiccant, which dries the air, thereby preventing moisture (e.g., water vapor) from entering the system 100. For example, the immersion tank 106 may include vents at each corner of the upper surface of the immersion tank 106. One or more vents 122 allow for fluid expansion within the immersion tank 106. One or more vents 122 may be multi-port vents that assist in controlling the fluid level and pressure as the temperature and dynamic conditions of the immersion tank 106 change. In at least some embodiments, one or more vents 122 may be unidirectional exhaust vents that do not allow gas and / or fluid to return to the immersion tank 106. In exemplary embodiments, one or more vents 122 allow air to enter and exit the immersion tank 106 as the fluid level in the immersion tank 106 changes. Thus, the pressure in the immersion tank 106 remains at or near atmospheric pressure and does not change into a vacuum or pressure vessel.

[0024]

[0035] According to various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 communicates with the expansion tank. When the system 100 is filled, air is pushed out from the immersion tank 106 into the expansion tank, and then further pushed out into the atmosphere through the expansion tank and tank breather. Otherwise, the immersion tank 106 is sealed, and the only interface between this closed system and the outside air is through one or more vents at the top of the expansion tank.

[0025]

[0036] In various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 is filled bottom-up through one or more ports (not shown) defining the bottom surface of the immersion tank 106. In other embodiments, the immersion tank 106 is filled from one or more surfaces other than the bottom surface so that air is discharged upward from the immersion tank 106, as can be understood by those skilled in the art by examining this disclosure. According to some embodiments, one or more ports may be located on or near the bottom surface of the immersion tank 106. The immersion tank 106 may be filled with working fluid to a predetermined level through one or more ports. For example, the predetermined level may be set so that a payload, such as a payload 110, is substantially covered by the working fluid. The predetermined level may be set so that the immersion tank 106 is filled to an appropriate level on the expansion tank, for example, as much as possible without overflowing. As the immersion tank 106 is filled through one or more ports, air is moved toward the top surface of the immersion tank 106 by the working fluid filling the immersion tank. One or more vents 122 allow air to be discharged from the immersion tank 106 to the expansion tank, and from the expansion tank to the atmosphere via a tank breather, so that the immersion tank 106 is filled as much as possible with the working fluid. The one or more vents 122 of the immersion tank 106 prevent the formation of bubbles in the immersion tank 106, which could lead to uneven cooling. Furthermore, bubbles can contribute to excessive fluid movement (e.g., sloshing) that may occur in a moving environment. For example, a fully filled immersion tank 106 is easier to control during dynamic events than a partially filled immersion tank due to fluid sloshing, etc. Therefore, it is desirable that the immersion tank 106 be fully filled at all times to ensure that the payload 110 is never exposed or left immersed in the fluid, especially during dynamic events that may cause bubble movement within the immersion tank 106.

[0026]

[0037] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide optimized use of cabinet space by maximizing payload capacity and utilizing server depth via vertically mounted payloads such as payload 110. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure minimize the amount of cooling fluid used for a given payload. System 100 described herein implements modularization of a cooling distribution unit (CDU), immersion tanks 106, and I / O. In some embodiments, the CDU of system 100 is optimized with a cooling capacity of 40 kW in cooling water at 6°C. The CDU of system 100 may be connected to two or more immersion tanks, as can be understood by those skilled in the art by examining the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the CDU may be less than 40 kW or more than 40 kW, depending on the capacity of the immersion tanks 106.

[0027]

[0038] According to at least some embodiments of this disclosure, System 100 provides a higher payload computing density compared to conventional air-cooled systems by improving the number of cores per socket, increasing the number of CPU and / or GPU sockets per motherboard, and packaging multiple motherboards into a single unit. In the immersion systems described herein, the removal or absence of fans and equipment for guiding air allows the space that would be occupied by these items in an air-cooled system to be used for processing hardware, thus improving the overall processing density.

[0028]

[0039] Figure 2A is a block diagram of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 2A is a block diagram of a robust immersion tank system. The description of system 100 with respect to Figure 1 is applicable to the description of a block diagram of a mobile immersion tank system. System 200 includes an outer frame 102. In at least some embodiments, the outer frame 102 can be mounted on a surface in the operating environment. For example, the outer frame 102 can be mounted on one or more walls, columns, other equipment, other structures, etc., in ships, aircraft, vehicles, or other unstable environments. In various embodiments, system 200 may be implemented in any existing cabinet other than the configuration shown in Figure 2A, making it possible to integrate embodiments of the present invention into existing enclosures currently used to enclose air-cooled systems.

[0029]

[0040] The system 200 further includes a shock cage 104 located within the outer frame 102. In various embodiments, the shock cage 104 may also be referred to as a secondary tank. In at least some embodiments, the shock cage 104 functions as a secondary storage tank to provide fluid storage in addition to the fluid storage provided by the immersion tank 106. The immersion tank 106 or its components are sealed to the external environment. Furthermore, the shock cage 104 may include additional shock and / or vibration support components to provide damping for mechanical shocks and / or vibrations and to cope with unstable environments encountered in operations on ships, in flight, or mounted on vehicles. The shock cage 104 provides a rigid structure for supporting the components housed inside during normal operation and dynamic events. An isolation system located outside the shock cage 104 and connected to it dampens most of the dynamic input. For example, the shock cage 104 is configured to withstand dynamic events so that the system 200 maintains its function during dynamic events. In various embodiments, the shock cage 104 provides rigid support to the immersion tank 106 located inside during stationary operation and in the event of dynamic events that may distort a conventional, less rigid structure. Thus, the isolation system coupled to the shock cage 104 not only provides shock absorption but also functions as a secondary fluid containment chamber in case of fluid leakage from the immersion tank 106 and / or the fluid subsystem. The shock cage 104 is rigid and provides support for fixing the immersion tank 106 and other system components to an isolated environment. For example, the shock cage 104 may be coupled to a partial door or front access panel 502 that seals the lower front of the shock cage 104 so that any fluid that may leak from the immersion tank 106 is contained within the shock cage 104, as shown in Figure 5.

[0030]

[0041] In various embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 can be coupled to or integrated with the immersion tank 106. As will be further fully described in relation to Figure 2C, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a heat exchanger 109. The heat exchanger 109 receives a source fluid 202 from an external environment, such as relatively low-temperature recirculated water in a system installed on a ship. In other embodiments, the heat exchanger 109 receives a cooled source fluid 202 from any external source, such as a heat exchanger support system 201. The heat exchanger 109 cools a working fluid (e.g., a dielectric fluid) in a manner that will be understood by those skilled in the art by examining this disclosure. For example, the heat exchanger 109 outputs a cooled working fluid 204 to the immersion tank 106 using the source fluid 202, and the heat exchanger 109 outputs a warmed source fluid 203 for reuse or disposal (e.g., by the heat exchanger support system 201). The heated working fluid 205 is guided to be recooled and recirculated through the fluid subsystem 108, as can be understood by those skilled in the art by examining the present disclosure.

[0031]

[0042] In at least some embodiments, one or more leak detection sensors 212, as shown in Figure 2A, can be placed within the shock cage 104. One or more leak detection sensors 212 can be used to monitor leaks from the immersion tank 106 into the shock cage 104, which will be described in more detail below. The shock cage 104 may further include a discharge port 214 that contains any fluid leaked from the immersion tank 106 into the shock cage 104, which will be described in more detail below. Thus, the shock cage 104 can function as a secondary retaining container for any fluid in the system 200 released from the immersion tank 106.

[0032]

[0043] According to various embodiments, the command / control signal 207 can be exchanged between the immersion tank 106 and the fluid subsystem 108 in a manner that will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0033]

[0044] Figure 2B is a block diagram of the immersion tank shown in Figure 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention. In various embodiments, the system 200 includes an immersion tank 106 for housing a payload 110. The payload 110 may include any form of data rail, server rail, etc. The immersion tank 106 may be a dielectric immersion tank sealed to the environment. The payload 110 is insertable into the immersion tank 106 using a locking rack 112 or other electronic hardware mount. The locking rack 112 is configured to hold the payload 110 in a vertical position to support the payload 110 when the fluid is drained from the immersion tank 106, dried, or otherwise removed. In various embodiments, the fluid is drained from the immersion tank 106 via one or more ports 210 of a fluid subsystem 108, which is described in more detail below with respect to at least Figure 2C, before the payload 110 is removed from the immersion tank 106. Port 210 may be for filling the immersion tank 106 with working fluid 204, and / or for discharging working fluid 205 from the system 200. One or more ports 210 may be integrated quick-disconnect filling and discharging ports to provide control over the inflow and outflow of moisture.

[0034]

[0045] In various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 communicates with an expansion tank 216 via one or more vents 122 and vent piping 211. The expansion tank 216 may be located away from the immersion tank 106, for example, attached to a shock cage 104. The immersion tank 106 is configured to release excess working fluid to the expansion tank 216 through the vent piping 211. For example, as a result of a rise in the temperature of the working fluid, the working fluid expands in volume and can escape into the expansion tank 216. When the volume of the working fluid contracts, the working fluid can flow from the expansion tank 216 through the vent piping 211 back into the immersion tank 106. The expansion tank 216 may be discharged into the atmosphere. Thus, the expansion tank 216 is configured to receive excess gas and / or liquid discharged from the immersion tank 106 so that the immersion tank 106 is not pressurized during operation. In some embodiments, the expansion tank 216 is coupled to the shock cage 104, and for example, the expansion tank 216 may be located on the outer surface of the shock cage 104 and inside the outer frame 102. The expansion tank 216 may include one or more fluid level sensors 218 for detecting the amount of fluid trapped in the expansion tank 216.

[0035]

[0046] In various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 may further include a tank breather 220. The tank breather 220 allows air exchange between the expansion tank 216 and the atmosphere to ensure that the immersion system 106 is not pressurized during operation. The tank breather 220 contains a desiccant for removing moisture from the air in the system 200. The tank breather 220 may include a tank breather health sensor 222 for monitoring the health (e.g., integrity) of the desiccant. The tank breather health sensor 222 may output a signal indicating that the desiccant should be replaced.

[0036]

[0047] The immersion tank 106 may further include one or more sensors 224, such as multi-characteristic sensors. The one or more sensors 224 may include one or more fluid quality sensors. Fluid quality sensors can monitor indicators of the health of the working fluid flowing through the system 200, such as its properties. For example, the one or more sensors 224 may include one or more fluid quality sensors that monitor dielectric constant, temperature, insulation degradation, etc. Dielectric fluid quality monitoring may be provided to monitor density or viscosity, among other fluid properties, in order to ensure a suitable immersion environment for electronic equipment. According to at least some embodiments, measurements derived from one or more sensors 224 may affect the flow rate and / or operation of the pumps in the system 200. In some embodiments, the immersion tank 106 includes an upper cover sensor 226 that indicates whether the access cover 228 of the immersion tank 106, which is sealed to the environment, is in the open and / or closed position.

[0037]

[0048] Figure 2C is a block diagram of the fluid subsystem shown in Figure 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 control the flow of cooled working fluid 204 and heated working fluid 205. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 may include at least two variable-speed pumps. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be connected to one or more valves and / or one or more check valves, or can cooperate with one or more valves and / or one or more check valves, to further control the flow rate of cooled working fluid 204 and / or heated working fluid 205 through the system 200. According to various embodiments, one or more variable-speed pumps 116 of the immersion tank 106 described herein may be hot-swappable pumps for continuous cooling of immersed electronic equipment. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be a set of redundant variable-speed pumps. The pump speed can be changed based on the temperature of the dielectric fluid (e.g., working fluid) recorded by the temperature sensors of one or more sensors 224 described above.

[0038]

[0049] According to at least some embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a filter 120 for filtering water and / or particulate matter from the heated working fluid 205. In at least some embodiments, the filter 120 for the heated working fluid 205 is provided to provide the removal of moisture and particulate matter. Monitoring of moisture accumulating in the filter 120 may also be provided to give a maintenance warning for replacing the filter canister when the water / moisture level in the containment reservoir becomes full. For example, a corresponding filter replacement sensor 208 for monitoring criteria indicating whether the filter 120 should be replaced.

[0039]

[0050] Referring again to Figure 2C, the fluid subsystem 108 may include a control system 230 for receiving data and / or measurements from any of the sensors in the immersion tank 106, and for further / or processing the data and / or measurements, for example, to change the flow rate controlled by one or more variable-speed pumps 116. In exemplary embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a programmable logic controller (PLC) system control unit. The control system of system 200 may be implemented elsewhere within system 200 and may include other means other than the PLC system control unit. System 200 includes various system control sensors and system health sensors to monitor the characteristics of various fluids and components of system 200. Furthermore, the control system 230 operates in conjunction with a user interface 231 that enables monitoring and control of system 200 by an operator. Monitoring and / or control of system 200 may be performed locally or remotely according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 further includes a temperature sensor 232, a first pressure sensor 233, and a second pressure sensor 234 for monitoring temperature and pressure within the system 200, respectively. The temperature sensor 232 is used to measure the temperature of the heated working fluid before it enters the heat exchanger 109. The pressure difference between the first pressure sensor 233 and the second pressure sensor 234 can be used to calculate the flow rate through the heat exchanger 109. Data and / or measurements from the temperature sensor 232, the first pressure sensor 233, and the second pressure sensor 234 may be further used by the control system 230, individually or in combination, to adjust parameters within the system 200, such as temperature and the flow rate of one or more variable-speed pumps 116.

[0040]

[0051] Figure 3 is a side view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 3 is a side view of a robust immersion tank system. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 with respect to Figures 1 and 2 are applicable to the description of the side view of the immersion tank system. As seen in this figure, the outer frame 102 provides mechanical support for the shock cage 104. In this embodiment, the shock cage 104 is mounted to the outer frame 102 using shock and / or vibration damping components 105. In other embodiments, the outer frame is insulated with respect to shock / vibration, and the shock and / or vibration damping components 105 are optional. Slide rails 114 allow the immersion tank 106 and fluid subsystem 108 to be moved in and out of the shock cage 104.

[0041]

[0052] The fluid subsystem 108 coupled to the immersion tank 106 includes a heat exchanger 109. The heat exchanger 109 is configured to transfer heat between a working fluid (e.g., a dielectric fluid) and a source fluid (cold water originating from the external environment, such as seawater if the system 200 is on a ship).

[0042]

[0053] Figure 4 is a front view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 4 is a front view of a robust immersion tank system. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 with respect to Figures 1 to 3 are applicable to the description of the front view of the immersion tank system. As seen in this figure, the fluid subsystem 108 may include one or more variable-speed pumps 116 used in conjunction with piping to circulate the working fluid through system 100. The fluid subsystem 108 may further include hose and cable management to optimize the space within the shock cage 104 and the outer frame 102. The fluid subsystem 108 may further include filters 120 for filtering water and / or particulate matter from the working fluid as it is circulated through the associated piping using one or more variable-speed pumps 116.

[0043]

[0054] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an immersion tank system according to one embodiment of the present invention. For example, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a robust immersion tank system. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 with respect to Figures 1 to 4 are applicable to the description of the exploded perspective view of the immersion tank system shown in Figure 5. System 100 is shown in an assembled form having an assembled immersion tank system including an outer frame 102, a shock cage 104, and an immersion tank 106. As seen in this figure, the shock cage 104 includes a front access panel 502 attached to the front of the shock cage 104. The front access panel 502 seals the lower front of the shock cage 104 so as to perform a secondary fluid containment function of the shock cage 104 by containing any fluid (e.g., working fluid) that may leak from the immersion tank 106 within the shock cage 104. Once the front access panel 502 is removed from the shock cage 104, the operator can slide the immersion tank 106 out of the shock cage 104 to access the immersion tank 106 and the payload stored inside it. The payload stored inside the immersion tank 106 is accessible from an environment-sealed access cover located on the top surface of the immersion tank 106, as will be described in more detail below.

[0044]

[0055] In at least some embodiments, the system 100 includes a control system 230 coupled to the immersion tank 106 and / or shock cage 104 within an outer frame 102. The payload data management system 504 may include external switches and any other electronic system hardware known in the art. For example, at least some embodiments described herein include an immersion network switch for internal data distribution that reduces I / O. Reducing I / O on the immersion tank reduces the number of potential leak or failure points. At least some embodiments of the present disclosure include a partition and / or cable interface with connectors that also provides a sealed interface while allowing power and data cables to pass through the access cover of the immersion tank.

[0045]

[0056] As shown in this figure, the system 100 includes an expansion tank 216. In some embodiments, the expansion tank 216 is coupled to the shock cage 104, and for example, the expansion tank 216 may be located on the outer surface of the shock cage 104 and inside the outer frame 102, as shown in Figure 5.

[0046]

[0057] According to at least some embodiments, system 100 can be used as a hybrid immersion and air-cooling system. For example, an air-coolable component (not shown), such as a solid-state hard drive, may be housed in the space between the immersion tank 106 and the top of the shock cage 104. Thus, system 100 provides both immersion and air-cooling capabilities.

[0047]

[0058] Figure 6A is a perspective view of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 with respect to Figures 1 to 5 are applicable to the description of the immersion tank. The immersion tank 106 includes an access cover 602 that defines the top surface of the immersion tank 106. The access cover 602 is an access cover sealed to the environment to prevent leakage from the immersion tank 106 to the shock cage. For example, the access cover 602 includes a gasket that lines the outer circumference of the access cover 602. The access cover 602 can be removed to access the payload 110 housed inside the immersion tank 106. In at least some embodiments, the access cover 602 may include an observation window 604 to allow monitoring of the fluid level without removing the access cover 602. In at least some embodiments, the access cover 602 is secured to the immersion tank 106 using one or more fasteners 606, such as screw-and-washer assembly (SEMS) fasteners. In other embodiments, the access cover 602 can be secured to the immersion tank 106 using other fasteners such as latches. In various embodiments, the I / O cable connector 118 is located on the access cover 602 or on the top surface of the immersion tank 106 to supply data and / or power to the immersion tank 106. In other embodiments, the I / O connector 118 is located elsewhere relative to the immersion tank 106, as can be determined by those skilled in the art based on the intended application. In various embodiments, the immersion tank 106 further includes a comprehensive electromagnetic interference (EMI) gasket to minimize radiated interference. For example, the EMI gasket may include a metal-impregnated elastomer gasket, other waveguide-style gaskets or cover shapes, etc.

[0048]

[0059] The immersion tank 106 may be filled from the bottom of the immersion tank 106 through one or more ports 210. One or more ports 210 may be integrated quick-disconnect filling and discharging ports. One or more ports 210 supply the working fluid to fill the immersion tank 106. Air is moved out of the immersion tank 106 by the introduction of the working fluid into the immersion tank 106 and is discharged through one or more vents 122 provided on the top surface of the immersion tank 106.

[0049]

[0060] Furthermore, the immersion tank 106 includes a slide rail 114 that allows the immersion tank 106 to be moved in and out of the shock cage 104 (for example, by sliding it in and out) as shown in Figure 1. The immersion tank 106 is configured to slide in and out of the shock cage on the slide rail 114 in a manner that can be understood by those skilled in the art by examining this disclosure.

[0050]

[0061] The immersion tank 106 communicates with the fluid subsystem 108 to allow the working fluid to flow through the immersion tank 106. In various embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a filter 120 for filtering water and / or particulate matter from the working fluid. Monitoring of moisture accumulating in the filter 120 can be provided to give a maintenance alert for replacing the filter canister when the water / moisture level in the containment reservoir becomes full. The fluid subsystem 108 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6B–6D.

[0051]

[0062] Figure 6B is a front perspective view of the fluid subsystem of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 and the immersion tank 106 described with respect to Figures 1 to 6A are applicable to the description of the front perspective view of the fluid subsystem of the immersion tank. The fluid subsystem 108 carries a working fluid (e.g., dielectric fluid) through the immersion tank and a source fluid (e.g., cooled fluid from an external source) through a heat exchanger 109. The heat exchanger 109 may be a brazed plate heat exchanger according to various embodiments. As those skilled in the art will understand by examining this disclosure, the heat exchanger 109 takes in cooled source fluid through source fluid piping 630 and outputs source fluid heated by working fluid flowing in parallel through the heat exchanger 109. The heat exchanger 109 further includes working fluid piping 626 for carrying the heated working fluid from the immersion tank to the heat exchanger 109 for heat transfer between the working fluid and the source fluid. According to various embodiments, the heated working fluid from the immersion tank is flowed from the top of the immersion tank to the heat exchanger 109, as indicated by the directional flow 621 of the heated working fluid.

[0052]

[0063] The fluid subsystem 108 includes one or more variable-speed pumps 116 for flowing the working fluid through the working fluid piping 626. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be connected to or cooperate with one or more valves 632 to further control the flow rate of the working fluid and / or source fluid. According to various embodiments, one or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be hot-swappable pumps for continuous cooling of the immersed electronic equipment. One or more variable-speed pumps 116 may be redundant variable-speed pumps.

[0053]

[0064] According to various embodiments, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a port 210 for filling an immersion tank with working fluid and / or discharging working fluid from the immersion tank. The port 210 may be an integrated quick-disconnect filling and discharging port for providing control over the inflow and outflow of the working fluid.

[0054]

[0065] The fluid subsystem 108 may include a filter 120 for filtering water and / or particulate matter from the working fluid. In at least some embodiments, a filter 120 for dielectric fluids is provided to provide the removal of moisture and particulate matter. Monitoring of moisture accumulating in the filter 120 may also be provided to give a maintenance warning for replacing the filter canister when the water / moisture level in the containment reservoir becomes full.

[0055]

[0066] Figure 6C is a rear perspective view of the fluid subsystem of an immersion tank according to one embodiment of the present invention. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 and the immersion tank 106 described with respect to Figures 1 to 6B are applicable to the rear perspective view of the fluid subsystem of the immersion tank. As seen in this figure, the fluid subsystem 108 includes a filter line 638 for guiding the working fluid from the fluid piping 626 through the filter 120 (not visible in this figure). The fluid subsystem 108 directs the cooled working fluid from the heat exchanger 109 to the bottom of the immersion tank, as indicated by the directional flow of cooled working fluid 639.

[0056]

[0067] As shown in Figure 6C, a directional flow 640 of cooled source fluid flows into the heat exchanger 109, and a directional flow 641 of heated source fluid flows out of the heat exchanger 109. The directional flow 621 of heated working fluid and the directional flow 639 of cooled working fluid are shown in more detail with respect to Figure 6D, which is described in detail below.

[0057]

[0068] Figure 6D is a cross-sectional side view of an immersion tank having a fluid subsystem according to one embodiment of the present invention. The descriptions of systems 100 and 200 and the immersion tank 106 described in relation to Figures 1 to 6C are applicable to the description of the side view of the immersion tank having a fluid subsystem. In Figure 6D, the flow of the heated working fluid is represented by a directional fluid flow 621, and the flow of the cooled working fluid is represented by a directional fluid flow 639.

[0058]

[0069] After passing through the heat exchanger 109 to cool the working fluid, the cooled working fluid passes through the working fluid piping 626 and enters the distribution plenum 628 of the immersion tank 106. The distribution plenum 628 provides fluid direction routing to guide the flow of the cooled working fluid, cooled in the heat exchanger 109, to the bottom of the immersion tank 106. The cooled working fluid that enters the bottom of the immersion tank 106 then flows upward, passing over and between the payload 110 and / or other electronic equipment attached to the immersion tank 106. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6D, a single payload 110 is shown.

[0059]

[0070] As the working fluid flows through the payload, it moves towards the top of the immersion tank 106 by both natural convection due to the heating of the working fluid and forced flow by the distribution plenum 628. As shown in Figure 6D, the heated working fluid leaves the immersion tank 106, passes through the screen 610, and then enters one or more variable-speed pumps 116, with a portion of the flow passing through the filter 120. Although only one variable-speed pump is shown in the cross-sectional view in Figure 6D, Figures 6B and 6C show one or more variable-speed pumps 116 that are utilized in some embodiments. Continuous partial filtration of the working fluid can be performed by the filter 120 to remove particles and moisture from the working fluid, maintaining a clean and moisture-free working fluid. In some embodiments, the filter 120 is a partial-flow filter, and not all of the working fluid passes through the filter 120 in each cycle.

[0060]

[0071] To access the contents of the immersion tank 106 (i.e., the payload mounted inside the immersion tank), the working fluid can be discharged from the immersion tank 106 through the bottom of the immersion tank 106 via a filling port (not shown in Figure 6D, but the filling port can refer to the filling port 210 shown in Figures 6B and 6C). In exemplary embodiments, the filling port is a single port that can be used for both filling and discharging the working fluid. In at least some embodiments, the filling port may be located on or near the bottom surface of the immersion tank 106. In other embodiments, the filling port may be located anywhere on the immersion tank 106, for example, on one or more side walls, the top surface, a secondary bottom surface (for example, a surface facing the bottom of the immersion tank 106 that is not the very bottom surface), etc.

[0061]

[0072] According to the various embodiments described herein, the payload is not air-cooled, and no fans are used to cool the system. By eliminating fans, ambient noise is reduced. Embodiments of this disclosure provide an immersion subsystem with an airborne noise (ABN) of less than 40 dBA (e.g., less than a quiet office).

[0062]

[0073] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method according to one embodiment of the present invention. In particular, Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for operating an immersion tank system. Method 700 includes inserting a payload into the immersion tank (702). The immersion tank may be similar to the immersion tank 106 of systems 100 and 200 described with respect to Figures 1 to 6D. Furthermore, the method includes flowing a source fluid from the external environment through piping connected to the immersion tank to a heat exchanger (704). Flowing the source fluid through piping to the heat exchanger can be used to cool a working fluid using the heat exchanger and the source fluid (706).

[0063]

[0074] The method further includes flowing a working fluid through one or more ports of the immersion tank (708). Various embodiments of the disclosure may guide the fluid by alternative means and various surfaces of the immersion tank. For example, the working fluid may flow through one or more ports along the bottom, top, one or more side walls, or any combination thereof, according to various embodiments. In one exemplary embodiment, the working fluid fills the immersion tank from bottom to top so that the working fluid pushes out excess air from the immersion tank in order to fill the immersion tank with the working fluid and reduce splashing and bubbles. For example, the method includes filling an immersion tank containing a payload with a working fluid to a predetermined level through one or more ports (710). The method further includes transferring heat from the payload to the working fluid (712). A payload in a system generates heat when operating. Heat transfer between the payload and the working fluid may occur in a manner that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0064]

[0075] In various embodiments, method 700 includes draining gas and / or liquid from one or more vents defining the upper surface of the immersion tank (714). In some embodiments, the gas and / or liquid is drained to an expansion tank connected to the immersion tank. For example, the expansion tank may communicate with the immersion tank to receive excess gas and / or liquid from the immersion tank. The method may include operating one or more pumps to drain working fluid to a heat exchanger (716). The above steps may be repeated until the payload is removed from the immersion tank. For example, to remove the payload from the immersion tank, the shock cage front access panel may be removed from the shock cage surrounding the immersion tank. Pumps may be installed for draining from the immersion tank through one or more ports. The immersion tank may be slid out from the shock cage, and the immersion tank cover may be removed to remove the payload from the immersion tank system. In some embodiments, the method includes draining working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

[0065]

[0076] Method 700 may further include monitoring various components of the immersion tank system. The method may include monitoring leaks using one or more control sensors within a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank. In various embodiments, one or more control sensors are leak detection sensors that detect fluid within the shock cage of the immersion tank system. The method may further include monitoring indicators of working fluid health using fluid quality sensors. The method may further include monitoring the fluid level of working fluid in an expansion tank using fluid level sensors.

[0066]

[0077] Various embodiments of this disclosure are shown below. When used herein, references to a series of embodiments should be understood as referring to each of those embodiments separately (for example, “Examples 1-4” should be understood as “Examples 1, 2, 3, or 4”).

[0067]

[0078] Embodiment 1 is an immersion tank system comprising an outer frame and an immersion tank located inside the outer frame. The immersion tank further includes one or more ports, one or more pumps, a control system, one or more sensors, and a heat exchanger.

[0068]

[0079] Example 2 is the immersion tank system of Example 1, wherein one or more ports are configured to fill and discharge the immersion tank.

[0069]

[0080] Example 3 is an immersion tank system of Example 1 or 2, wherein one or more ports are located on the surface of the immersion tank.

[0070]

[0081] Example 4 is the immersion tank system of Example 3, wherein the surface is the bottom surface of the immersion tank.

[0071]

[0082] Example 5 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1-4, wherein one or more pumps are variable-speed pumps.

[0072]

[0083] Example 6 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1-5, further comprising a slide rail.

[0073]

[0084] Example 7 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1-6, further comprising a shock cage located inside the outer frame, the shock cage including a front access cover.

[0074]

[0085] Example 8 is the immersion tank system of Example 7, in which an impact mount coupled to the outer frame provides impact absorption for the immersion tank.

[0075]

[0086] Example 9 is the immersion tank system of Example 7, configured such that the immersion tank slides on a slide rail to move in and out of the shock cage.

[0076]

[0087] Example 10 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1-9, wherein the immersion tank further comprises a sealed access cover.

[0077]

[0088] Example 11 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a leak detection sensor.

[0078]

[0089] Example 12 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a fluid level sensor.

[0079]

[0090] Example 13 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 12, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a tank breather health sensor.

[0080]

[0091] Example 14 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 13, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a fluid quality sensor.

[0081]

[0092] Example 15 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the heat exchanger is a brazed plate heat exchanger.

[0082]

[0093] Example 16 is an immersion tank system of Examples 1 to 15, configured such that the immersion tank is vented to an expansion tank.

[0083]

[0094] Example 17 is a method for operating a immersion tank system adaptable to multiple environments. The method includes a) inserting a payload into the immersion tank; b) flowing a source fluid from the external environment through piping connected to the immersion tank to a heat exchanger; c) cooling a working fluid using the heat exchanger and the source fluid; d) flowing the working fluid through one or more ports of the immersion tank; e) filling the immersion tank containing the payload to a predetermined level with the working fluid through one or more ports; f) transferring heat from the payload to the working fluid; g) discharging gas and / or liquid from one or more vents defining the top surface of the immersion tank to an expansion tank coupled to the immersion tank; and h) operating one or more variable-speed pumps to flow the working fluid to the heat exchanger, and repeating steps b) to h) until the payload is removed from the immersion tank.

[0084]

[0095] Example 18 is the method of Example 17, further comprising monitoring for leaks using one or more control sensors in a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank.

[0085]

[0096] Example 19 is a method of Example 17 or 18, further comprising monitoring the health indicators of the working fluid using a fluid quality sensor.

[0086]

[0097] Example 20 is a method of Examples 17-19, further comprising monitoring the fluid level of the working fluid in the expansion tank using a fluid level sensor.

[0087]

[0098] Example 21 is a method of Examples 17-20, further comprising draining the working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

[0088]

[0099] Example 22 is a method for accessing an immersion tank system, comprising providing an immersion tank. The immersion tank includes one or more ports, one or more variable-speed pumps, a control system, one or more control sensors, one or more health sensors, and a heat exchanger. The method includes removing a shock cage front access panel from a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank, installing a pump and draining working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports, sliding the immersion tank out of the shock cage, removing the immersion tank cover from the immersion tank, and removing the payload from the immersion tank system.

[0089]

[0100] Example 23 is the method of Example 22, further comprising monitoring for leaks using one or more control sensors in a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank.

[0090]

[0101] Example 24 is a method of Example 22 or 23, further comprising monitoring the health indicators of the working fluid using a fluid quality sensor.

[0091]

[0102] Example 25 is a method of Examples 22-24, further comprising using a fluid level sensor to monitor the fluid level of the working fluid in an expansion tank communicating with the immersion tank.

[0092]

[0103] Example 26 is a method of Examples 22-25, further comprising draining the working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

[0093]

[0104] The art described and claimed herein is not limited in scope by the specific preferred embodiments disclosed herein, for those embodiments are intended to be illustrative rather than limiting of some aspects of the art. Any equivalent embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the art. Indeed, in addition to the modifications shown and described herein, various modifications of the art will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are also intended to fall within the technical scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. Outer frame and An immersion tank located inside the outer frame and The immersion tank is equipped with, One or more ports, One or more pumps, Control system and, One or more sensors, heat exchanger and An immersion tank system that further includes the following features.

2. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein one or more ports are configured to fill and discharge the immersion tank.

3. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more ports are located on the surface of the immersion tank.

4. The immersion tank system according to claim 3, wherein the surface is the bottom surface of the immersion tank.

5. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the pumps are variable-speed pumps.

6. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, further comprising a slide rail.

7. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, further comprising a shock cage positioned inside the outer frame and including a front access cover.

8. The immersion tank system according to claim 7, wherein an impact mount coupled to the outer frame provides shock absorption for the immersion tank.

9. The immersion tank system according to claim 7, wherein the immersion tank is configured to slide on a slide rail and be moved in and out of the shock cage.

10. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, further comprising a sealed access cover for the immersion tank.

11. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a leak detection sensor.

12. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a fluid level sensor.

13. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a tank breather health sensor.

14. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more sensors is a fluid quality sensor.

15. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger comprises a brazed plate heat exchanger.

16. The immersion tank system according to claim 1, wherein the immersion tank is configured to be vented to an expansion tank.

17. A method for operating an immersion tank system adaptable to multiple environments, a) Inserting the payload into the immersion tank, b) A source fluid from the external environment is flowed to the heat exchanger through piping connected to the immersion tank, c) Cooling the working fluid using the heat exchanger and the source fluid, d) The working fluid is flowed through one or more ports of the immersion tank, e) Filling the immersion tank containing the payload with the working fluid to a predetermined level through one or more ports, f) Transferring heat from the payload to the working fluid, g) Discharging gas and / or liquid from one or more vents defining the upper surface of the immersion tank to an expansion tank connected to the immersion tank, h) Operating one or more variable-speed pumps to flow the working fluid to the heat exchanger, Repeat steps b) to h) until the payload is removed from the immersion tank. A method that includes this.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising monitoring for leaks using one or more control sensors in a shock cage surrounding the immersion tank.

19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising monitoring the health indicator of the working fluid using a fluid quality sensor.

20. The method according to claim 17, further comprising monitoring the fluid level of the working fluid in the expansion tank using a fluid level sensor.

21. The method according to claim 17, further comprising discharging the working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

22. A method for accessing an immersion tank system, One or more ports, One or more variable speed pumps, Control system and, One or more control sensors, One or more health sensors, heat exchanger and To provide an immersion tank equipped with, Removing the front access panel of the shock cage from the shock cage surrounding the immersion tank, Install a pump to discharge the working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports, The immersion tank is slid out of the shock cage, Removing the immersion tank cover from the aforementioned immersion tank, To remove the payload from the aforementioned immersion tank system and A method that includes this.

23. The method according to claim 22, further comprising monitoring for leaks using one or more control sensors in the shock cage surrounding the immersion tank.

24. The method according to claim 22, further comprising monitoring the health indicator of the working fluid using a fluid quality sensor.

25. The method according to claim 22, further comprising using a fluid level sensor to monitor the fluid level of the working fluid in an expansion tank communicating with the immersion tank.

26. The method according to claim 22, further comprising discharging the working fluid from the immersion tank through one or more ports before removing the payload from the immersion tank.

Images