Optimizing Data Center Infrastructure for Efficiency and Expansion
Challenge
An enterprise colocation services provider needed to improve facility performance and pursue Tier 3+ compliance. As customer demand increased, the organization needed to maximize existing infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and create capacity for future expansion.
The facility's cooling infrastructure was operating far below potential. Mechanical systems ran continuously due to limited controls, cooling towers were not optimized effectively, and all computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units remained online regardless of demand. About 3,000 tons of mechanical cooling supported only a 529-ton load, creating inefficiencies and limiting the organization's ability to bring additional revenue-generating space online.
Solution
To help the facility achieve its performance and growth objectives, Mantis implemented integrated controls and cooling optimization to align infrastructure performance with actual demand.
The approach centered on three key steps:
- Integrate power and cooling systems through advanced controls.
- Install heat exchangers, automated valves, and pumps to improve cooling operations.
- Optimize airflow with automated two-way valves and improved air distribution.
By creating a more responsive operating environment, the facility improved cooling efficiency, reclaimed stranded capacity, and supported future growth without significant new infrastructure investments.
Results
The project improved the facility's use of its critical cooling infrastructure. By reducing unnecessary mechanical operations and improving system responsiveness, the organization enhanced energy performance while unlocking capacity for future expansion.
The facility now operates with dynamic, self-healing systems that support growth, higher rack densities, and N+1 compliance objectives. The result is a more efficient, scalable, and resilient data center, better positioned to meet customer demand.
Performance Outcomes:
- 55% mechanical capacity reclaimed across cooling infrastructure.
- 2.1 to 1.5 PUE improvement achieved through controls optimization.
- 4.4 million annual kWh saved through improved efficiency.
- 3,000 MT CO₂e reduced annually through lower energy consumption.
- 200+ watts per square foot supported with N+1 compliance readiness.