Numerical simulation of solar chimney-based direct airside free cooling system for green data centers

The growing number, size, complexity, and energy density of data centers result in considerable energy challenge. The implementation of efficient and eco-friendly cooling systems, strategies, and methods that can help reduce the energy consumption of traditional cooling systems is imperative for data centers. In this study, an innovative concept of a solar chimney-based direct airside free cooling (SC-DAFC) system is proposed for data centers to achieve energy saving. A theoretical model of the SC-DAFC system is developed to evaluate the indoor thermal environment, ventilation flow rate, and heat recovery of the data center under given climate conditions. 3D numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the effects of raised floor height and turbine pressure drop on the cooling performance of the system. An economic analysis is also conducted by calculating the net present value and dynamic investment recovery period of the project. Results indicate that the thermal environment in the SC-DAFC data center can meet the cooling requirements under favorable climate conditions, and such project has strong profitability. The SC-DAFC system is technically and financially feasible, thereby providing efficient solutions that reduce energy consumption and operational costs.