Immersion Cooling Manifold Layout for Stable Multi-Rack Coolant Levels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing immersion cooling systems face challenges in efficiently cooling multiple computer system components due to uneven coolant distribution, potential overflow or low coolant levels, and exposure to air, which can lead to overheating and damage, especially when using multiple racks with separate cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
A single coolant distribution system with a coolant distribution unit, manifold, supply and return lines, and adjustable valves and nozzles to manage coolant flow and level, along with a weir mechanism to maintain consistent coolant levels and prevent air intake, ensuring even cooling across multiple racks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple off-the-shelf smaller racks with tanks are used, then ease of installation and transport is improved, but device complexity increases due to requiring separate cooling systems for each rack
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cooling systems into a single integrated cooling distribution system that serves multiple racks. The cooling distribution unit with manifold and multiple outlets consolidates what would otherwise require separate pumps and heat exchangers for each rack, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the benefit of using multiple standard racks.
2Device complexity
If a single pump and heat exchanger are used to cool multiple racks, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates when coolant levels become uneven across racks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality control by providing individual coolant level control mechanisms for each rack. Each rack has its own outlet duct positioned at different heights, allowing localized adjustment of coolant inflow and outflow to maintain proper coolant levels in each rack independently, while still using a single centralized cooling distribution unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts coolant distribution to each rack based on local requirements. The outlet ducts at different heights and the ability to control coolant flow paths allow the system to adapt coolant distribution in real-time to maintain optimal levels in each rack, preventing both overflow and insufficient cooling.
3Adaptability or versatility
If minor differences in flow are used to vary cooling rates of racks, then adaptability is improved, but reliability worsens due to risk of coolant level overflow or depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables local quality control of coolant levels in each rack through strategically positioned outlet ducts at different heights. This allows each rack to have its cooling rate independently adjusted while maintaining reliable coolant levels, as the height-differentiated outlets provide natural flow control that prevents both overflow and depletion.
4Reliability
If coolant is pumped out of the bottom of tanks to avoid air intake, then reliability is improved by preventing air damage to pumps, but device complexity increases due to risk of complete tank draining from leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coolant circulation system into separate inlet and outlet paths. By having dedicated outlet ducts positioned at specific heights in each rack, the system creates distinct flow paths that prevent air from entering the pump while also limiting the impact of potential leaks. This segmentation allows coolant to be pumped from the bottom for pump protection while maintaining safer leak containment through the distributed outlet structure.
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
The system provides efficient, uniform cooling across multiple racks, preventing overheating and damage by maintaining optimal coolant levels and flow, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
The supply line may be configured to convey the coolant fluid from the coolant distribution unit to the coolant manifold
Implementation Method 2
The coolant manifold may redistribute the fluid
Implementation Method 3
by submerging those components in a tank filled with a dielectric coolant
Implementation Method 4
The return line may be configured to convey the coolant fluid from the coolant manifold to the coolant distribution unit
Implementation Method 5
A first level may be defined by a first weir in the first buffer coolant tank
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects include devices, systems, and methods for multi-tank immersion cooling distribution. The devices and systems may include a coolant distribution unit, a coolant manifold, a supply and return line, and one or more immersion cooling racks. The coolant distribution unit may be configured to adjust a temperature and pump a fluid used as a coolant. The coolant manifold may redistribute the fluid. The immersion cooling racks may be disposed between the coolant distribution unit and the coolant manifold. Each immersion cooling rack may be coupled to the coolant manifold through an inlet duct for receiving the fluid from the coolant manifold and an outlet duct for returning the fluid to the coolant manifold.