Daikin has introduced a new Coolant Distribution Unit (CDU) targeting the intensive thermal management demands of AI workloads in data centres, with orders opening on 1 November 2027.
The CDU is designed to enable thermal energy transfer between the Facility Water System and the Technology Cooling System. It supports stable and reliable operating conditions in computing environments where power densities continue to rise as AI and machine learning applications expand.
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Individual units are offered in capacities from 400 kilowatts (kW) to 2.5 megawatts (MW). Through proprietary control logic developed by Daikin, up to ten CDUs can function in parallel as a single integrated system, with centralised control of circuit temperature and pressure.
For deployments requiring greater scale, pre-assembled skid solutions are also available in which multiple units are factory-integrated and configured for parallel operation. This approach is intended to simplify installation and commissioning while reducing on-site integration requirements.
Each CDU is equipped with a controller developed by Daikin for the coordinated management of multiple units within the same system.
High availability has been a central design consideration. The architecture incorporates redundant pumps, duplicated pressure and temperature sensors, an integrated leak detection system, advanced alarm management and options supporting continuity of electrical supply.
The hydraulic circuit is constructed entirely from AISI 316L stainless steel, with grooved mechanical couplings used throughout to eliminate welded joints. This design provides corrosion resistance and facilitates installation and maintenance throughout the equipment lifecycle.
All servicing is carried out from the front of the unit, while dedicated sliding rails allow pumps to be withdrawn for faster component replacement.
To address the rapidly fluctuating thermal loads typical of AI-oriented facilities, the CDU pairs variable-speed pumps with high-accuracy flow, pressure and temperature instrumentation. It also enables dynamic adjustment of TCS operating parameters.
A modulating valve featuring an equal-percentage control characteristic and a high-speed actuator governs the thermal exchange between the two water circuits, supporting control of the TCS outlet temperature according to configured operating parameters.
Alongside the CDU, Daikin has extended the scope of its Intelligent Data Center Manager (iDCM) platform. Previously focused on chilled water plant control, iDCM now covers a wider range of data hall equipment, including CDUs, computer room air handlers, air handling units and fan wall systems.
The platform presents real-time temperature readings, equipment status and alarms through a single interface, while also supporting diagnostic and troubleshooting activities. It can be connected to existing building management systems for coordinated facility oversight.
The CDU range is suitable for both new-build and retrofit projects and is available in standardised configurations intended to streamline procurement and project coordination.
