NY-14-002 -- Hydraulic Modeling as a Tool to Quantify Pump Energy Savings in Data Center Chilled Water Systems PDF

This paper looks at hydraulic modeling as a tool to optimize energy savings from part-load pumping strategies, taking advantage of the fact that redundant pumps and other equipment are typically installed in data centers. The commercially available hydraulic analysis package used for analysis is capable of solving for balanced flows and pressures throughout the system, and includes detailed models of all pumps, heat exchangers, valves, pipes and fittings. It allows individual pipelines to be easily shut off, simulating failure modes, and also allows pump speeds to be reduced, allowing for simulation of VFD operation. The procedures and results are demonstrated for a theoretical data center with a 5.5MWIT Load and 12°F (6.6°C) water-side delta t. Pumping energy savings of over 30% were obtained by making optimal use of redundant equipment. On the other hand, pumping penalties of up to 20% were also noted through careless selection and use of redundant pumps.