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We recently held a webinar, Enabling New Data Center Technology with Simulation-Based Digital Twins, with PD Solutions, our Australian distributor. This webinar introduced PD Solutions, Future Facilities, and our product suite 6SigmaDCX. We demonstrated how simulation-based digital twins, especially when implementing new data center technology, help streamline data center design and operations management. 

What is data center simulation? Why do we need it?

While the webinar goes into more detail, data center simulation uses a virtual model of the data center and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to perform the calculation of air temperatures, speeds, and pressures, both in and outside of the white space.

Data center designers and operators need simulation because it is the safest way to evaluate and optimize the implementation of new concepts and technologies in the data center. Data center simulation enables designers and operators to identify the most appropriate choice and layout of equipment as well as the most efficient way to deploy equipment in the data center. 

Significantly, data center simulation also removes the risk associated with trial-and-error testing. For example, data center simulation can answer the following questions and more: What if my CRAC goes down? What if I lose chilled water for some time? What if I lose power? In other words, engineers can test “What-ifs” in a virtual environment without risk. 

Data center simulation for capacity planning and operations

At Future Facilities, our 6SigmaDCX software suite is paving the way for data center CFD simulation. Within the webinar, we discuss how you can use 6SigmaDCX to study the impact of new cooling technologies and optimize your data center facilities. We also introduce the digital twin for capacity planning and operations. Adam Smith, who works in Business Development at Future Facilities, described how the digital twin “can facilitate the communication between the capacity planning team and the facilities team and how deployment can be tested, rectified, and then agreed upon before any changes are made in the physical hall. This [all happens] digitally through the power of simulation.”

Check out the full webinar here.

Blog written by: Danielle Gibson, Product Marketing Manager