KoolLogix & A*STAR launch GBP £8m cooling lab in SG

KoolLogix and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) have launched a USD $8 million Joint Lab in Singapore focused on developing energy-efficient cooling solutions for AI and GPU-driven data centres.

Singapore's data centres are notable for their significant energy consumption, with cooling systems representing up to 40% of this due to the country's tropical climate. AI and GPU technologies contribute to this demand, escalating heat generation and carbon emissions.

The new joint facility will concentrate on innovative cooling technologies, promoting decarbonisation within the industry. This collaboration aims to enhance KoolLogix's cooling capabilities by incorporating A*STAR's research in predictive maintenance, intelligent control systems, AI, IoT technologies, and digital twin solutions. The focus is on developing adaptive cooling systems that meet rising demands while reducing energy use, costs, and environmental impact.

This partnership continues a successful collaboration between KoolLogix and A*STAR. The KoolLogix Heat Removal Module (HRM) 20 Series was initially developed through A*STAR's Technology for Enterprise Capability Upgrading (T-Up) programme, supporting companies in competitive technological advancements. This earlier system enabled a 75% reduction in cooling energy consumption for KoolLogix clients.

The recently unveiled HRM50 Series, capable of removing 50kW of heat per rack, promises further enhancements in energy efficiency. Its design, devoid of pumps and compressors, achieves a notable Coefficient of Performance of 150 and an energy savings potential of 50% compared to traditional methods. The Zero Water Risk Technology provides safety by eliminating the need for chilled water in data centres, supporting infrastructure safety.

KoolLogix's clients, including OCBC Bank and the National Supercomputing Centre Singapore, have benefitted from reduced electricity usage, achieving significant economic and ecological benefits. The company, recognised for its sustainability initiatives, has received the Emerging Enterprise Award 2021 and the Sustainability Award.

CK Cheong, Co-founder and CEO of KoolLogix, commented, "This decade-long collaboration with A*STAR has been transformative for KoolLogix. By leveraging A*STAR's expertise in computational fluid dynamics and advanced modelling, we've been able to pioneer paradigm-shifting sustainable heat-removal solutions that enhance data centre performance while significantly cutting energy costs."

Professor Yeo Yee Chia, A*STAR's Deputy Chief Executive (Innovation and Enterprise), stated, "The rapid and widespread deployment of AI requires innovations to improve the power usage efficiency in data centres. One key challenge is efficient heat removal. A*STAR is proud to work with KoolLogix in developing solutions that address key issues, and translating science into technologies that benefit companies and contribute to Singapore's sustainability goals."

This collaborative effort underscores the potential of industry-science partnerships to address practical challenges, foster economic growth, and bolster Singapore's leadership in sustainable technology innovation.