Data Center Air Duct System with Integrated Ductwork Support Curbs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data center air containment systems are limited in supporting the weight of pipes, ducts, wiring, and hardware, and lack integrated solutions for efficient airflow management, leading to inefficient cooling and increased energy costs.
Innovation Solution
An air duct system with curved support curbs and ceiling panels that create a cradle to receive ductwork, allowing for the selective delivery or exhaustion of air in hot or cold aisles, and a kit that includes these components to facilitate airflow management and support various data center equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If air containment structures are self-supporting or supported by equipment racks, then the containment structure can be installed independently, but the structure cannot support the weight of pipes, ducts, wiring and hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The containment structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it contains air in the aisle while simultaneously supporting the weight of pipes, ducts, wiring and hardware through integrated support features such as curbs and mounting attachments built into the containment walls and ceiling
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures for pipes and ducts are merged with the air containment structure itself, eliminating the need for separate support systems. The containment walls and ceiling incorporate integrated curbs, rails and mounting points that combine air sealing and structural support functions
2Productivity
If ductwork is suspended from building infrastructure separate from containment system, then the ductwork can be installed independently, but the containment system cannot effectively manage airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The ductwork support system is merged with the air containment structure, with curbs and mounting features integrated into the containment ceiling and walls. This integration ensures that airflow management and structural support are coordinated, allowing the containment system to effectively manage airflow while supporting ductwork
3Loss of energy
If hot and cold aisles are contained separately, then cooling efficiency is improved, but the system cannot support additional equipment weight
Solution Approach 1:
The aisle containment structure is designed to simultaneously achieve thermal separation for cooling efficiency and provide structural support capacity through integrated curbs, rails and mounting features that can bear the weight of pipes, ducts and equipment while maintaining air containment integrity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
An air duct system is configured to be used with an air containment system that spans an aisle defined by rows of racks. The air duct system includes a plurality of ceiling panels supported by the air containment system, and a plurality of support curbs mounted on the ceiling panels. The plurality of support curbs is configured to support ductwork positioned on the support curbs, ductwork positioned on the plurality of support curbs. The air duct system further includes a plurality of panels secured to the support curbs to create a plenum underneath the ductwork. A kit providing an air duct system is further disclosed.