Review of Isolated DC-DC Converters for Applications in Data Center Power Delivery

Abstract

Ever-increasing digital connectivity coinciding with the advent of Industry 4.0 has significantly increased the need for reliable, safe, and fast-processing data centers. The reliability aspect of these data centers majorly depends upon the continuity and quality of electrical power powering these centers. Although individual server racks are rated for a few kWs, their cumulative rating can reach MWs for typical data centers. Typically, these data centers are powered from medium voltage lines and require a rigid, efficient, and fast-responding power delivery architecture to supply electronic loads operating at very low voltages. To achieve the desired performance, power-electronic converter switching at high-frequency (in the range of 100s of kHz to MHz) is employed, thereby optimizing the component size and the overall power density of the converter. In the last decade, novel and efficient dc-dc converters employing wide-bandgap devices of SiC/GaN (Silicon Carbide/Gallium Nitride) have been proposed and commercialized for potential application in renewable energy integration and electric vehicle charging. This paper attempts to analyze these potentially isolated dc-dc converters for data center applications. The potential opportunities capable of improving efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving power quality are also highlighted.