Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics for Calculating Flow Rates Through Perforated Tiles in Raised-Floor Data Centers

Abstract

This paper describes a computational fluid dynamics model for calculating airflow rates through perforated tiles in raised-floor data centers. The model is based on the assumption that the pressure in the space above the raised floor is uniform, which allows the calculation to be limited to the space below the raised floor. It uses a finite-volume method, the k-∊ turbulence model, and a multigrid method. The model is applied to a real-life data center. The calculated results for velocity and pressure distributions are discussed. The flow rates through the perforated tiles are shown to be in good agreement with the measured values.