The rapid development of cloud computing and AI has increased the need for data centres and supercomputers. These facilities require huge amounts of power that is quickly converted into heat.
To counteract overheating, large cooling towers are built adjacent to the data centres. These are in operation during hot summer months and idle during cold weather. Whatever the time of year, it is important to take proactive measures to combat corrosion and maintain a healthy system in the long term.
Corrosion problems in cooling water systems
Corrosion in piping and other equipment shortens the life of the cooling system and increases downtime for repairs - not to mention the cost of water damage that can result from leaks. In addition, corrosion residues can clog the system or contaminate the water through higher levels of iron and other metals. These problems can be avoided by working on corrosion prevention and ultimately save both time and costs.
Corrosion protection during operation
Although corrosion inhibitors are a standard component of water treatment programmes for active cooling systems or cooling towers, they are sometimes overlooked. In the absence of a corrosion inhibitor, a Cortec anti-corrosion additive can be added. The products provide comprehensive protection thanks to corrosion inhibitors that act in both the contact and vapour phases, protecting the metal surface both below and above the water level. It is also an excellent substitute for silicates, phosphates and nitrite-based compounds where waste restrictions apply.
Corrosion protection during standstill
While the use of a corrosion inhibitor
while operation is normal practice, protection of chillers or cooling tower systems sitting idle during cold weather is less widespread than it should be. When the water treatment programme is inactive, the risk of corrosion from residual moisture or condensation that occurs when temperature and humidity vary increases.
At temperatures above freezing, data centres can choose to have their cooling system on standby by adding Cortec VpCi 649 BD, an additive with effective rust inhibitors. If freezing is a problem, you can drain the water after adding VpCi 649 BD. The corrosion inhibitors diffuse through the empty space and form a protective molecular layer on the metal surfaces as long as the system remains closed. When the temperature is high enough to return to operation, the cooling water system can be restarted without first having to remove the corrosion inhibitor additive.
Prevent and fight corrosion
With the rapid expansion of data centres for cloud computing and AI, the need for efficient cooling solutions is increasing. Contact us to discuss how to minimise corrosion problems in cooling systems and cooling towers during operation and downtime.
