IBM

Eaton Helps IBM Keep Its Supercomputers Running Cool

Supercomputers generate a tremendous amount of heat and require effective and efficient means of cooling when it incorporates some of the fastest microprocessors in the world.  With speed and inconceivable amounts of computational output, liquid cooling is paramount to successful operation.  Eaton’s design team helped tackle the challenge of combining liquid cooling and electronics on IBM’s new POWER 575 supercomputer.

IBM designers harnessed the cooling power of water – proven to be 4,000 times more effective than air as a coolant.  But mixing water and electricity can be catastrophic, so a liquid cooling conveyance system must prove itself utterly and unquestionably leak proof – especially at connection points. 

The Eaton design team stepped outside their usual markets and developed the perfect solution for this venerable icon of American business –the Eaton FD83 coupling.  Since Eaton’s global culture is focused on sustainability, it’s not surprising that the FD83 coupling supports a cooling system reducing data center energy consumption by 40% -- and requiring 80% fewer air conditioning units.

Eaton’s quick-disconnect FD83 coupling provides minimal spillage when disconnected -- and features an unobstructed full-flow path, special locking pin and level handle to prevent accidental disconnects and color-coded bumpers to avoid cross-connections.  With one-inch 303 stainless steel construction and EPDM O-ring seals with 150 and 300 PSI operating and burst pressures – the coupling also scores high on reliability and performance. 

To satisfy customers like Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, IBM demanded the ultimate in robust liquid components for the POWER575 supercomputer -- and Eaton designers delivered.

The new Eaton Dual-Interlock FD83, designed for the next generation of thermal management and electronics cooling applications was awarded the prestigious 2009 Design News magazine’s Golden Mousetrap award.  The FD83 coupling was selected by editors of Design News from a record number of entries in the prestigious 2009 global Golden Mousetrap competition.