The data center industry is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for cloud computing services, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and especially artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. As businesses continue to adopt cloud services, they are relying more on external data centers to host their data and applications, leading to a greater demand for larger data center infrastructures.
The surge in data generated by IoT devices, big data analytics, AI and machine learning requires more robust storage and processing power, resulting in an increase in the number of data centers. By 2030, it’s projected that AI workloads will account for approximately 70% of data center capacity, contributing to a projected 160% increase in power demand.
Additionally, edge computing, which brings computation and data storage closer to the source of the data, is driving the establishment of smaller, localized data centers. These smaller sites are well-suited for 5G networks, which require ultra-low latency by processing data closer to the end user.
However, the expansion of data centers poses several challenges, particularly concerning rising energy consumption. Data centers need vast amounts of energy to run servers and maintain cool environments, which could potentially double or triple energy loads from data centers in the U.S. by 2028, further escalating energy consumption.
As data centers become larger and more complex, managing indoor air quality (IAQ) becomes vital to protect equipment and staff health as well as controlling energy consumption. For example, controlling dust accumulation on sensitive equipment is important to prevent overheating and ventilation issues, which impact equipment longevity, personnel health, sustainability and energy usage.
While proper ventilation is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality, increasing ventilation to improve IAQ can lead to higher energy consumption. Modern HVAC systems utilizing high-efficiency air filters, such as those rated MERV 13A to 16A, are capable of capturing particulate matter, dust and even bacteria, to improve data center air quality without increasing energy usage.
In fact, as high-efficiency air filters capture more particles, they reduce the buildup of dust and debris on HVAC system components like coils and fans. This allows the system to operate more efficiently. Less dust accumulation means the system doesn’t have to work as hard, which can lower energy consumption and extend the system’s lifespan.
The Role of HVAC Filtration in Data Centers
Who is Responsible for the Quality of the Air Inside the Data Center?
In large data centers, the selection of HVAC filters is typically the responsibility of several key roles, which may vary depending on the organization’s structure. These include:
- Facility Manager or Building Engineer: This staff member is responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of building systems including HVAC. The individual coordinates the maintenance, operation and upgrades of HVAC systems, ensuring filters are appropriately selected to maintain optimal air quality and system efficiency.
- HVAC Technicians: These specialists focus on the technical aspects of HVAC systems and filter selection. They design, plan and specify filters for the data center while considering airflow, pressure drop, filtration needs and HVAC operation.
- IT Infrastructure Manager: This manager oversees data center operations and collaborates with facility managers and engineers to ensure that the chosen HVAC and filtration system meets the cooling, IAQ and energy consumption requirements of the data center.
- Procurement Manager: Responsible for acquiring materials and equipment for the data center, this manager handles the purchase of HVAC filters once they are specified by engineers or facility managers
- Environment Health and Safety Manager: Focusing on ensuring air quality and fair working conditions that comply with regulatory standards, this manager ensures that filters meet health, safety and environmental regulations to prevent particulate contamination.
In large data centers, ensuring optimal environmental conditions for sensitive IT infrastructures often requires close coordination among various departments. This collaboration focuses on selecting an HVAC system, including filters, that maximizes efficiency, reduces downtime, and ensures optimal conditions for the sensitive IT infrastructure.
In smaller data centers, a more compact team manages HVAC filter selection, typically involving the facility manager and HVAC technician, along with:
- Data Center Manager: In smaller facilities, the data center manager may oversee both IT and infrastructure aspects, working closely with HVAC specialists to choose the right filters for effective cooling and airflow.
- IT Manager: While not directly responsible for the HVAC system, the IT manager may be involved in filter selection, especially if the HVAC system affects server performance or if specialized cooling is needed for sensitive equipment.
Regardless of the size of the data center, successful filter selection requires a collaborative effort based on specific requirements of the space, cooling needs and energy efficiency objectives.
Why HVAC Filtration in IT Environments Is Critical
Maintaining an optimal operating environment is crucial to the performance, security and efficiency of data centers. HVAC systems play an important role in ensuring air quality and effective filtration, which helps maintain clean air and prevents contaminants from entering the data center.
Particulate matter in data centers can originate from various sources such as outdoor air pollution, diesel-powered backup generators and servers. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are also a concern. Emitted from overheated servers, these compounds may contain harmful chemicals that can damage sensitive equipment and pose health risks to personnel.
Trapping harmful particles through HVAC filtration is essential for data centers for several reasons.
- Protecting IT infrastructure from Airborne Contaminants. Dust and particulates can obstruct cooling systems and accumulate on sensitive equipment, resulting in reduced efficiency, overheating and damage. Effective HVAC filtration in IT environments prevents these contaminants from entering the environment where critical IT equipment operates to improve data center air quality.
- Enhancing System Efficiency and Uptime. Poor air quality and contaminants can cause downtime or hardware failure. Robust HVAC filtration ensures that clean air is circulated, reducing the risk of dust and particulate matter affecting sensitive equipment. Additionally, proper filtration minimizes the need for frequent maintenance of both HVAC systems and data center hardware.
- Improving Energy Efficiency and Reducing Power Consumption. HVAC systems equipped with efficient filtration optimize airflow, which enhances the performance of cooling systems. Without proper cooling, temperatures can quickly rise, potentially causing equipment damage or system failures. To compensate for inefficient cooling, HVAC systems must work harder, leading to increased energy consumption. Effective filtration helps HVAC systems operate optimally, controlling overall energy use.
- Preventing Health Issues. Filtering out allergens, contaminants and bacteria contributes to maintaining clean and safe air for staff working in the data center.
- Maintaining Compliance with Industry Air Quality Standards. Effective air filtration ensures that data centers meet the required air quality and environment standards for compliance and safety. Many data centers operate under strict cleanroom standards that limit airborne particles. HVAC systems equipped with high efficiency filters help meet these standards.
Challenges in Data Center IAQ and Energy Consumption
Poor IAQ Is a Problem
Data centers are highly sensitive to their environmental conditions. Poor data center air quality can negatively impact the performance, efficiency and reliability of sensitive equipment, including servers, storage systems and other components. When staff enters the space, impurities from their clothing can be introduced. Additionally, outdoor air pollution and dust can infiltrate data centers and server rooms through ventilation systems.
Research conducted by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) highlights that dust and particulate contamination are primary concerns for data centers. Even small amounts of dust, dirt and other particulates can pose significant risks to this equipment.
For instance, the accumulation of dust and particulate matter on sensitive devices, fans and filters can hinder their proper operation, leading to system slowdowns. Additionally, certain pollutants, such as high levels of VOCs, can accelerate corrosion of metal electronic components in hardware.
Data centers rely on controlled environments to maintain optimal temperatures for IT equipment. If airborne contaminants are not captured by filters, they can clog ventilation systems, reducing airflow and cooling efficiency. Clogged cooling systems increase the risk of equipment overheating, which leads to processing malfunctions or failures. In addition, cooling inefficiencies can damage or cause short circuits, resulting in maintenance costs and operational downtime. Unplanned IT downtime can cost anywhere from $5,600 to $9,000 per minute, depending on the company.
An inefficient cooling system also requires more energy to maintain proper temperatures. This increases energy consumption, operational costs and the environmental footprint for the data center. Cooling inefficiencies caused by IAQ issues can increase energy consumption.
Rising Energy Consumption
Data centers are very energy-intensive, consuming 10 to 50 times more energy per floor space than a commercial office building. As noted earlier, AI-driven workloads are growing and will significantly elevate data center energy demands. Goldman Sachs estimates that data center power demand will grow by 160% by 2030. While data centers worldwide currently consume 1%-2% of overall power, that figure is projected to rise to 3%-4% by the end of the decade due to AI advancements.
While data center power demand remained stable despite increased workloads between 2015 and 2019 due to improved efficiency, power consumption has increased since 2020. This trend is expected to continue with the rise of AI, as a single ChatGPT query requires 2.9 watt-hours of electricity compared to 0.3 watt-hours for a Google search. According to McKinsey analysis, the United States is expected to be the fastest-growing market for data centers, with demand rising from 25 GW of demand in 2024 to more than 80 GW in 2030.
While the majority of energy consumed in a data center is used to power computer hardware, the energy required for the HVAC systems can be a close second. As data centers expand, the need for energy-efficient HVAC solutions becomes increasingly important. Unfortunately, many data centers still utilize inefficient air filtration methods, leading to higher energy usage. Older, traditional data centers often depend on basic HVAC systems equipped with standard filters for cooling and air filtration, which are not optimized for energy efficiency or air quality. In environments with high dust levels, standard filtration solutions may be inadequate. Additionally, areas with significant pollution and humidity can exacerbate filter clogging, further diminishing system efficiency.
If air filters fail to capture fine or specific contaminants, they can become clogged and restrict airflow. As a result, the HVAC system must work harder to maintain adequate airflow, resulting in increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills.
For example, a data center situated in a heavily urbanized area with significant traffic may experience filter clogging due to dust and other particulates. This forces the HVAC system to work harder, increasing electricity costs for ventilation and cooling. Ineffective filtration also can lead to pollution accumulation in the data center, adversely affecting hardware and increasing maintenance needs. Implementing high-efficiency filters can help alleviate these issues and reduce excessive energy use.
Air Filtration Solutions for Data Centers
Benefits of High-Efficiency Filters
Today’s advanced HVAC systems use high-efficiency air filters to improve both data center air quality and energy performance. These filters effectively remove a significant percentage of airborne particles, resulting in cleaner air that improves airflow and reduces the load on air conditioning systems. High-efficiency filters with low pressure drops achieve a balance between effective filtration and low resistance to airflow that can reduce energy consumption while improving system performance
In some cases, HEPA filters, capable of capturing a minimum of 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, are required to remove the smallest contaminants from the air. However, because these filters with very high filtration efficiency tend to have higher pressure drops, data centers may opt to use a combination of filters in their HVAC systems to achieve several benefits:
- Energy Savings for Data Centers: Energy-efficient filters prevent air handlers from working harder to push air through clogged or inefficient filters. This reduces energy consumption and operating costs in data centers.
- Greater system efficiency: High-efficiency filters enhance the overall efficiency of HVAC systems, allowing for smoother air circulation. By decreasing airflow resistance, less energy is required for cooling that results in energy cost savings.
- Enhanced IAQ: High-efficiency filters trap a range of fine particles including dust, dirt and other contaminants to maintain high levels of air quality and prevent contaminants from entering the data center. Clean air is important for the optimal performance of servers and other sensitive hardware.
- Improved Cooling Efficiency: These filters help prevent dust and particles from accumulating on cooling systems, ensuring they function at peak performance.
- Extended Equipment Lifespan: Reducing airborne dust and particulate matter helps prolong the lifespan of HVAC components and IT equipment. This results in fewer repairs and replacements, which reduces maintenance costs, minimizes downtime and lowers labor needs.
- System Performance: The selected filters must balance the filtration efficiency with the pressure drop to avoid negatively impacting the HVAC system’s airflow and energy consumption.
Categories of Air Filters
A variety of high-efficiency filtration methods are available, each designed to remove different types of contaminants at varying efficiencies. Air filters are selected based on the specific needs of the data center environment. It’s common for data centers to require various levels of air filtration efficiency for different areas and applications. Below are three general filter categories based on performance.
- MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) Filters: These filters are rated according to their ability to trap small particles. Ideally, data centers should use air filters with a MERV rating between 13 and 16 and labeled with a MERV-A rating. Filters indicating their MERV A value means they will maintain that efficiency value for their entire service life.
MERV filters are frequently used in data centers as they can balance the filtration efficiency with pressure drop to avoid negatively impacting the HVAC system airflow and energy consumption. These filters are usually installed at the air intakes for cooling systems to capture air contaminants as air circulates through the system. Ventilation systems in data centers and server rooms can circulate and replace air 30 to 50 times per hour, compared to an average commercial office exchange rate of only two to six times per hour. Different types of MERV filters have unique advantages and efficiencies. Often, these filters are used in combinations to address different requirements.
- High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters
HEPA filters are highly efficient at trapping very small particles, capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Made from dense layers of micro-glass fibers, they are an excellent choice for improving data center air quality under the right conditions.
Although HEPA filters are not energy efficient and tend to be more expensive, they can be used in conjunction with other MERV filters as part of a comprehensive filtration system.
- Molecular Filters
Gases are composed of particles that are so small, they are better thought of as molecules. In fact, they are so small, they can easily pass through the most efficient HEPA filters. Gaseous contaminants can accumulate on electrical components and cause corrosion damage that can cause downtime if not recognized and corrected in time.
Capturing gases requires specialized filters known as molecular filters, sometimes referred to as carbon filters. These filters remove harmful gases, VOCs and other odor-producing chemicals from the air using a filtration process known as adsorption. Identifying the gases present enables the selection of the most effective carbon media for controlling them.
Camfil’s Filtration Solutions for Data Centers Result in 40% Costs Reduction
Camfil offers a variety of filtration solutions designed to maintain air quality, energy efficiency and reliability in data centers. Camfil’s high-performance filters are engineered with energy efficiency in mind and incorporate advanced technologies that ensure lower pressure drops while maintaining high filtration efficiency. By removing harmful particulate and gaseous contaminants, Camfil air filters create a safer indoor environment while reducing energy costs up to 40% or more.
Server Rooms
Dust and particulate matter that accumulate on sensitive electronic components like fans and circuit boards can lead to overheating or hardware failures. Overheated servers can emit gaseous contaminants and particulates that contain chemicals that may damage circuit boards and cooling systems. Poor IAQ also can affect the health and safety of workers and spread into areas of the data center. Server rooms also may experience air pollution that contributes to high corrosion levels, making printed circuit boards, contacts and conductors vulnerable to damage. Camfil provides various high-efficiency air filters that ensure high levels of indoor air while maintaining low energy costs.
General Ventilation
These high-quality, energy-saving filters are available in a variety of designs and classes, ranging from MERV 8 to 16 or ePM1, ePM2.5 and ePM10 using the ISO 16890 classification system.
- Hi-Flo ES. This pocket-style filter features multi-pocket, tapered pleats that optimize airflow, ensuring both efficiency and durability. Its high loft, air-laid media, which is exclusive to Camfil, allows for a deeper filter structure that increases dust-holding capacity, capturing both large particles and submicron-sized particles from the air. In addition, it has the lowest average pressure drop, resulting in the industry’s lowest energy cost. Filters are available in MERV 11/11A, 13/13A, 14/14A and 15/15A ratings.
- Durafil Compac. This high-performance 6”-deep V-bank air filter is designed for efficient use in environments where space is limited, such as air handling units. The V-bank design allows for greater surface area, improving airflow and filtration efficiency while retaining a compact form. Durafil Compac filters are available in MERV ratings of 13/13A, 14/14A and 15/15A. The fine fiber construction ensures that filters maintain efficiency throughout the service life.
- Durafil ES3. Housed in a durable ABS plastic frame, this high efficiency V-bank style air filter is known for its long-lasting efficiency and low life cycle costs. The V-bank design maximizes airflow while maintaining excellent filtration performance, leading to lower pressure drops and improved energy efficiency. Filters are available in MERV ratings 13A, 14A and 16A, effectively filtering out particles as small as 0.3 microns in size.
- Absolute VG. This compact box-type filter provides HEPA filtration efficiency in a lightweight but robust V-bank design that is easy to handle. With high airflow capacities up to 2400, the Absolute VG filter features a low pressure drop, resulting in significant energy savings in data centers compared to other filters on the market, leading to a lower total cost of ownership. Filters are certified to a minimum efficiency of 99.99% at 0.3 microns.
Molecular
Molecular contaminants are airborne pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide and ground-level ozone, which are 1,000 times smaller than what HEPA filters can capture. If left unchecked, these contaminants can corrode sensitive data center equipment, resulting in costly repairs and service disruptions. Camfil offers the following filters to identify and control these contaminants.
- CityPleat. This premium pre-filter combines panel filtration to capture both particulate and molecular (gases and odor) contaminants in one filter stage. The units utilize Camfil’s Rapid Adsorption Dynamic filter media for better initial removal efficiency and extended lifetimes against offensive molecular contaminants. These filters can be used in existing installations to remove low concentrations of most external and internal pollutants. City Pleat 1000/1500 filters have a MERV 7 and ozone rating of 5 to 6 while CityPleat 150/200/300/400 and 500 have a MERV 8 and ozone rating of 2.
- CityCarb I. This filter integrates mini-pleat V-cell filtration technology with MERV 15 (14A) particulate and molecular media to remove both solid and gaseous contaminants in a single filter stage. The CityCarb I model uses broad spectrum carbon and will adsorb more than 99.5% of the thousands of different molecules typically present in a data center’s indoor environment. It is an ideal option for improving IAQ and ensuring the removal of solid particles and gases.
- AirImage-COR. This specialized air quality monitor provides instant measurement of corrosive gases in the air to indicate the corrosivity level of an environment. The real-time corrosion monitoring system operates in accordance with ISA 71.04 standard, identifying threats to sensitive electronics and valuable assets in real-time. Connection capabilities include: ethernet, RS485, 4-20 mA, WiFi, Bluetooth or GPRS.
Computer Room Air Handling
Computer room air handlers are essential in data centers to cool the heat generated by equipment. Air filters are used in these systems to capture airborne particulates before they circulate in the cooled air. Camfil air filters are designed for computer room air handling systems to effectively remove dust, particulate matter, airborne particles as well as gases and odors. These filters are engineered for energy efficiency, preventing air handlers from overworking, which ultimately reduces energy consumption and extends the lifespan of the HVAC system.
General Ventilation Single-Stage AHUs
In addition to the Durafil Compac, Durafil ES3 and Absolute VG (mentioned above), the Camfil 30/30 Dual 9 is recommended for computer room air handling.
- 30/30 Dual 9. This filter is named for its MERV 9/9A efficiency and its minimum 9-month service life guarantee. Designed as a filter for single-stage HVAC systems, the 30/30 Dual 9 also provides protection for the secondary filtration stage and other components of the air handling unit (AHU). For example, it serves as a prefilter to manage larger airborne contaminants, ensuring superior filtration efficiency and protecting sensitive electronic equipment in data centers. It can be combined with the Durafil ES3 filter that targets submicron particles. Featuring high-efficiency media, unique pleat shapes, reinforced pleat support and a robust frame, this filter is guaranteed to remain in service from 9-12 months. Units have an efficiency value of MERV9/9A and an ISO ePM10-55.
Make-Up Air Units
Make-up air refers to the replacement air introduced into a building to compensate for the air that has been exhausted. Air handling units provide this conditioned outdoor air. This make-up air needs proper filtration to ensure high IAQ to protect processes, people and products. The following Camfil filters can be used in make-up air systems to mitigate the risk of harmful particulate and gaseous contaminants from entering the data center.
General Ventilation
Many filters used for server rooms and air handling unit filtration can be used in make-up units, including the Hi-Flo ES, Durafil Compac, Durafil ES3, 30/30 Dual 9 (see descriptions above). Another option is the Cam-Flo XLT.
- Cam-Flo XLT. Recommended as an efficient air inlet filter, this high-strength synthetic media bag filter effectively removes harmful particles from the air. The filter provides low initial resistance to airflow for energy savings and increased airflow in air-starved systems. Built with multi-layered polypropylene media and a reinforced ABS frame, this robust air filter is designed for challenging environments, including those with moisture and turbulence. Units are available with MERV 11/11A, 13/13A and 16/15A ratings and can operate up to 2500 cfm without sacrificing performance.
Molecular
Molecular filters used in server rooms and air handling unit filtration can also be used in make-up air units, including the CityCarb I, and the CityPleat series. Each is described above.
Comparison of Traditional filters vs. Camfil High-Efficiency Filters
Traditional filters typically have lower filtration efficiencies, often with MERV ratings between 8 to 13. They are often constructed of thick synthetic fibers to keep manufacturing costs down. Coarse synthetic fibers often require an additional electrostatic charge added to achieve the desired MERV value, which can degrade over time. This reduction in efficiency can cause the MERV value to drop below its original rating and below what the facility requires. Designed primarily for basic HVAC systems where airflow is prioritized, these filters are often used for general air filtration and may not meet the specific needs of critical applications. Although traditional filters are affordable initially, they can cost more over time due to frequent replacements. Using low-quality air filters in a data center ventilation system results in up to a 30% drop in efficiency over the entire system.
In contrast, Camfil air filters are engineered for higher efficiency, targeting smaller particles such as fine particulate matter and bacteria. They utilize energy-efficient materials, including fine fibers as opposed to coarse fibers and advanced composite materials, which create media that combine high filtration efficiency with strength and resistance to chemicals and temperatures. Filters that utilize fine fibers can be classified under the MERV A rating system, which indicates the filter will maintain its original MERV value. For air filtration systems designed to remove gases, odor and VOCs, Camfil uses a wide range of activated and impregnated carbon and other media. The company’s focus on low-emission materials leads to reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
Camfil air filters are designed to minimize airflow resistance while maximizing filtration efficiency. They are used in critical environments such as data centers, healthcare facilities, cleanrooms and industrial applications. By installing Camfil’s 5-star air filters in existing air ventilation systems, organizations can reduce energy expenditures by up to 40% through improved airflow.
The Future of Energy Efficient IAQ in Data Centers
The future of air filtration in data centers will be influenced by growing demands for energy efficiency, improved sustainability and ongoing technological advancement. Since data centers are among the largest consumers of energy, IAQ will significantly impact energy efficiency and sustainability. As the demand for data grows, data centers will face more pressure to operate more efficiently.
High-efficiency air filters, such as MERV A-rated filters, will be essential in capturing airborne contaminants to reduce load on HVAC systems and lower cooling energy requirements. These filters also will contribute to healthier working environments and help minimize the carbon footprint of data centers.
Camfil supports current and future energy efficiency goals with filters designed to minimize air restriction while maintaining high air flow and efficiency in capturing airborne particles. These air filters reduce pressure drop so less energy is required to circulate air through the system. They also ensure cleaner air for healthier and more productive data center environments. In addition, the use of sustainable materials, innovative technologies and proprietary processes enables the development of filters that use less material and last longer, generating less waste while achieving high filtration efficiency.
The growth of digital data will increase the number of data centers and the volume of data processing within these facilities. This surge heightens the importance of maintaining superior indoor air quality to protect equipment, optimize operations, ensure safety and control energy consumption. By investing in high-efficiency air filters, data centers can achieve operational savings, extend equipment life and significantly reduce their environmental impact.
Discover more about Camfil’s data center solutions or contact a Camfil air filtration expert. Our trained clean air experts can help you evaluate the current air quality in your data centers and server rooms, recommend equipment and technology based on your specific goals and requirements, predict total cost of ownership using our Life Cycle Cost software and deploy the appropriate solutions.
⁴ https://nerdssupport.com/true-cost-of-it-downtime/
⁵ https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/data-centers-and-servers
⁶ https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/AI-poised-to-drive-160-increase-in-power-demand
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