Thermal analysis and optimization of data center building envelope insulation in different climate zones

Abstract

The discrepancy in occupancy between ordinary buildings and data centers requires a unique methodology to achieve more effective cooling load reduction. This paper proposes using net heat flow through the building envelope as a control metric, considering the unique requirements of data centers. A corresponding optimization approach is developed to adjust the insulation thickness accordingly. Using the proposed method, five representative cities from different climate zones are analyzed and compared with the current standards. The orientation of roof insulation design for data centers should be contrary to that of ordinary buildings in all five climate zones. In addition to regions with extremely cold and cold climates, the insulation design orientation of the walls surrounding the data center should also be opposite that of ordinary buildings. Lower cooling load is observed at least 50% of time in a year when using the proposed method among climate zones. This article provides an alternative to using natural cooling sources through a building envelope designed specifically for data centers that have greater climate adaptability.