All simulation examples
Illustrative study — supplied sample content. The scenario, simulation visuals and numerical results below are examples supplied for this website. They are not independently verified IMBEST project results, client endorsements or performance guarantees. Method, feasibility and delivery scope must be confirmed for each enquiry.
CFD-Based HVAC Optimization for a Data Center White Space
Tracing rack-level hot spots to an under-floor obstruction and rebalancing cooling without adding hardware.
01 — ChallengeHot spots despite adequate total cooling capacity
A hyperscale operator reported rack inlet temperatures exceeding ASHRAE recommended limits in specific rows, even though the facility’s total cooling capacity was sized correctly on paper.
02 — ApproachFull-room model including the under-floor plenum
A full-room CFD model was built including the raised-floor plenum, perforated tile layout, CRAC unit placement, rack-level heat loads, and — critically — cable congestion under the floor, using a grid-independent RANS simulation with k-ω SST turbulence closure.
03 — Simulation ResultRack inlet temperature contour, post-optimization
Rack inlet temperature contour, post-optimizationFig. 1 of 1
04 — Quantified ResultsBefore / After
| Parameter | Baseline | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under-floor static pressure (affected zone) | baseline | → | −35% (obstruction identified) |
| Max rack inlet temperature | 29.4°C | → | 23.1°C |
| Rack Cooling Index (RCI) | 81% | → | 98% |
05 — Business Impact
Deferred a planned CRAC unit expansion, saving an estimated $210K in capital and ongoing energy costs.