CoolSim Overview

CoolSim 5 is the most effective data center airflow modeling tool on the market today. A 3D graphical user interface enables quick and easy construction of a data center model. The airflow and temperature distribution are then calculated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Finally, comprehensive reports, graphics, and animations are generated automatically and can be viewed from CoolSim or using any internet connected browser.

Key Features

Simple user interface with familiar terms

CoolSim was designed with ease of use as a cornerstone of the application. All objects can be simply dragged and dropped into the 3D environment. Libraries of common objects are available for users to insert. Additionally, users can create their own objects and add them to the library system for future use on other models. Online training allows users to progress at their own pace.

Ansys technology in a pay-as-you-go model

With CoolSim, model building is performed on a local PC and the CFD meshing, solving, and postprocessing are done on a cloud based high-performance computing cluster. This remote simulation facility (RSF) uses world-leading Ansys simulation technology, providing you with the best meshing, solving, and post-processing technology in the industry without needing to purchase a full license.

Superior End User Support

All customer simulations are monitored 24/7 for possible failure. Support engineers can query the server log files for problems, fix them, and resubmit jobs for further processing. This approach significantly improves the CoolSim user experience and greatly reduces simulation turn-around time. Further, the system becomes more robust over time as new techniques are deployed to reduce processing time and increase results accuracy.

Comprehensive Output Reports

The Data Center Output Report delivered by CoolSim is a key distinguishing feature of the software. Generated automatically, it includes numerical reports of the flow and temperature fields for all of the equipment in the room, as well as graphics and animations. The 3D model can be manipulated with the mouse to alter the view or zoom into certain regions for more careful inspection.

Try viewing a sample model here!

Special keyboard commands allow for the output of high-resolution image files for hardcopy production. The HTML report can be shared via URL, or imported into PowerPoint or Excel, making it easier for users to share the results.

CoolSim Modeling Capabilities

Raised / Non-Raised Floor Designs

Any type of data center room configuration can be built in CoolSim, including:

• Fan walls
• Ceiling return plenums
• Angled or round walls
• Obstructions like overhead/underfloor cable trays or building pylons

Cooling Systems

CoolSim supports various cooling methods including:

• Constant supply temperature
• Linear and non-linear cooling capacity controlled by thermostats on the supply and/or return
• Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) controlled by temperature or pressure differential

Ducted Designs

CoolSim offers a ducting tool that allows the placement of ducts and diffusers in any section of the room. Diffusers can be adjusted to balance flow throughout the room.

Custom IT Rack Configurations

Various IT rack configurations can be deployed including:

• front-to-rear
• front-to-top
• front-to-rear
• top

Individual servers can be configured in IT racks at the 1U level. Each server can be adjusted with power load and expected temperature rise. Missing blanking panels can be modeled using the rack “gap” feature and defined at the rack unit level.

CRAC Parameter Variation (CPV) Analysis

CoolSim users can submit up to 4 variations of CRAC parameters concurrently. CPV parameters include power state (on/off), mass flow rate, and supply air temperature. This feature enables simulated failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) for mission-critical operations.

External Flow

Since CoolSim 5, users have the ability to set up and model exterior wind direction and temperature. Chillers, generators, and heat exchangers can be added to building rooftops or equipment yards to study the effects of various wind conditions on heat rejection performance. This allows campus designers to experiment with equipment placement and spacing prior to physical deployment.

General Purpose Inlets and Outlets

General purpose inlets/outlets can be added to the model allowing users to model any kind of air inlets or outlets in a room. Control parameters include mass flow rate, temperature, and angle of flow.