Fuel Cell Backup Power for Data Center Cooling Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional back-up power systems for telecommunications and data centers are inadequate as they cannot provide sufficient power to cooling systems when both utility and diesel generator sources are unavailable, leading to potential heat-related damage to equipment.
Innovation Solution
A dedicated back-up power system utilizing fuel cells to generate direct current (DC) power, which is converted to alternating current (AC) using an inverter, and a transfer switch to direct this power to the cooling system, ensuring continuous operation even when primary power sources fail.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VRLA batteries are used as backup power source, then DC power is available for limited time, but the air conditioning system cannot draw power from them because it runs on AC
Solution Approach 1:
An inverter is introduced as an intermediary device that converts DC power from the VRLA batteries into AC power that the air conditioning system can utilize. This mediator enables power transfer between incompatible systems (DC batteries to AC cooling system), resolving the compatibility issue while maintaining backup power reliability.
2Reliability
If diesel generator is used as backup power source, then AC power is available when utility fails, but it cannot operate when both utility and diesel generator are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
VRLA batteries are pre-charged during normal operation as a preliminary action, creating a ready-to-use DC power source that can immediately activate the inverter when both utility and diesel generator fail. This preliminary energy storage extends the duration of backup power beyond what the diesel generator alone can provide.
3Reliability
If dedicated backup power is allocated to cooling system, then cooling continuity is improved, but power available for other facility operations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into dedicated cooling backup (VRLA batteries + inverter) and general facility backup (diesel generator). This segmentation allows the cooling system to have guaranteed power continuity while other facilities share the diesel generator resources, resolving the conflict between cooling reliability and overall power availability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides reliable cooling for telecommunications and data equipment by extending backup power availability to the cooling system, maintaining equipment within safe temperature limits for up to 24 hours, even during extended power outages.
Implementation Method 1
The back-up power source comprises a source of direct current (DC), preferably at least one fuel cell
Implementation Method 2
an inverter to convert all of the DC to alternating (AC)
Data Source
AI summary
A power system that serves as a source of dedicated back-up power for a cooling system is disclosed. The power system utilizes a plurality of fuel cells, which produce direct current (DC) power. A conversion device, such as an inverter, is used to convert the DC into alternating current (AC) for powering the cooling system. A transfer switch connects the AC power from the inverter to the cooling system. The position of the transfer switch determines the source of AC power for the cooling system.