Next-gen systems for data centres

The Star

3 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia's sights are set on becoming a regional data centre hub under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), tech giant ABB Malaysia is hoping to support the nation's ambition with next-generation electrification solutions for data centres.
From easier to deploy and upgrade electrical system infrastructure, energy-efficient systems and even equipment and efforts to address the talent shortage in the local engineering sector, ABB Malaysia is set to pioneer local data centre infrastructure standards.
ABB Data Center Lead Kent Chow said this includes the use of modular, prefabricated electrical systems that are designed for hyperscale data centre projects in Malaysia's growing tech corridors.
'Traditionally, electrification systems were only installed after the physical building was completed but that method is becoming outdated and we must relook the way we build things.
'In today's trend, core infrastructure like electrical systems are concurrently built in a separate factory, while the data centre building is still under construction.
'Once ready, the infrastructure is delivered to site and installed externally, dramatically reducing construction time while also making it more scalable for future expansion,' Chow said during his presentation at the CloudTech & DataCentre Conference 2.0 on Aug 6.
He added that the modular design also allows customers to order in volume and replicate installations across multiple sites or even possible expansion into other Asean markets.
When discussing energy efficiency, Chow highlighted that ABB Malaysia offers medium-voltage uninterruptible power supply (UPS) solutions that complement the capabilities of traditional low-voltage systems.
Medium-voltage UPS solutions provide higher efficiency, enhanced reliability and cleaner cable management by reducing the amount of cabling required – making them well-suited for facilities looking to optimise performance and space.
'This reduces power losses while improving overall system performance which is key for operators aiming to meet environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments,' he said.
Another critical aspect of data centre operations is effective cooling, which is essential to ensure the continuous and efficient functioning of vast amounts of IT equipment.
As data centres expand rapidly, concerns are growing about their environmental impact, particularly regarding sustainable cooling solutions.
ABB's high-efficiency motors and variable speed drives (VSDs) play a vital role in addressing these challenges.
'Our IE5 ultra-­premium synchronous reluctance (SynRM) motor technology delivers up to 40% lower energy losses compared to standard IE3 motors,' explained Kent.
'When paired with our ultra-low harmonic drives, which enhance power network stability, these technologies significantly reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions and operating costs, while maintaining optimal conditions for sensitive computing infrastructure.'
To help address the noticeable talent gap in the local engineering industry, Chow said ABB has also developed a solution based on remote assistance and augmented reality.
Through this system, Chow said on-site technicians will be provided a live video sharing service solution in which they scan a QR code and connect instantly with regional experts at ABB or the customer's own backend service centre.
'This reduces downtime, avoids travel delays, and even cuts carbon emissions as it consolidates all subject matter experts into a single location,' he said.
To support long-term talent development, he added that ABB Malaysia is working with several Malaysian universities to offer scholarships and internship programmes.
On the operation side, Chow also revealed ABB's newest technologies to simplify maintenance which include their signature self-calibration flowmeters.
'During a mechanical failure, replacing a flowmeter using the manual method can be a nightmare. You have to shut off systems, open valves and it takes time.
'But ABB's wireless, self-­calibrating flowmeter eliminates these issues as it can calibrate itself automatically and allows readings to be monitored remotely.
'This both reduces downtime and supports safer operations without the need for lengthy physical site visits,' Chow added.
Organised by The Star Media Group, the CloudTech & DataCentre Conference 2.0 was held from Aug 6 to 7 with the goal of bringing together the biggest national leaders in the data centre industry to discuss the next digital step forward for the country.
Featuring a host of speakers from various backgrounds and covering many topics from the future of AI in the data centre industry and many others, the gold sponsor of the event was ABB Malaysia.