Global Switch, a data centre operator controlled by China’s state-backed Jiangsu Sha Steel Group, is responding to the increasing demand for liquid cooling solutions in Hong Kong driven by artificial intelligence firms from mainland China. Ben Ryder, solutions engineering director at Global Switch, highlighted the surge in demand for higher density racks in recent years, with requirements escalating from 20 kilowatts per rack to now up to 100 kilowatts as the company introduces liquid cooling capabilities.
Direct-to-Chip Liquid Cooling Solutions
Global Switch recently announced the availability of direct-to-chip liquid cooling in its 30-megawatt facility in Tseung Kwan O, catering to the growing need for advanced cooling solutions in data centres. This innovative approach involves placing a cold plate with cool liquid in direct contact with integrated circuits, providing efficient and effective cooling for high-power applications such as artificial intelligence. By embracing direct-to-chip cooling, Global Switch is at the forefront of meeting the evolving needs of AI-driven industries in Hong Kong.
Meeting the Demands of AI Applications
As power requirements for AI applications continue to rise, data centres are under increasing pressure to provide adequate cooling solutions to support the intense computational demands of artificial intelligence. Global Switch’s initiative to offer direct-to-chip liquid cooling is a strategic response to the growing demand for high-performance computing capabilities in the region. With AI technologies driving innovation across various industries, the need for advanced cooling solutions has never been more critical.
The company has observed a surge in inquiries related to deploying China-made graphics processing units (GPUs), particularly in light of geopolitical developments that have impacted the availability of certain chips from US-based companies. The politicization of GPU exports has fueled demand for AI chips from Chinese companies like Huawei Technologies and Biren Technology, prompting data centre operators like Global Switch to adapt their offerings to accommodate the evolving landscape of chip procurement.
Strategic Partnerships and Innovation
Global Switch’s collaboration with China’s state-backed Jiangsu Sha Steel Group underscores the strategic partnerships that drive innovation in the data centre industry. By leveraging the expertise and resources of a leading steel group, Global Switch is well-positioned to meet the specific cooling needs of AI firms in Hong Kong and beyond. The introduction of direct-to-chip liquid cooling represents a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for high-density computing environments.
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the ability to adapt and innovate is crucial for data centre operators seeking to stay ahead of the curve. Global Switch’s proactive approach to addressing the demands of AI and GPU applications reflects a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers and supporting the growth of the digital economy in Hong Kong. By investing in advanced cooling solutions and forging strategic partnerships, Global Switch is paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable data centre ecosystem in the region.
As the demand for AI-driven technologies continues to grow, data centre operators will play a pivotal role in enabling the deployment of high-performance computing solutions. By offering direct-to-chip liquid cooling and other innovative technologies, Global Switch is poised to support the development of AI applications in Hong Kong and contribute to the advancement of the digital infrastructure in the region. With a focus on meeting the unique cooling requirements of AI and GPU applications, Global Switch is setting a new standard for data centre efficiency and performance in the era of artificial intelligence.