Air conditioning in data centres: what role do plastic profiles play here?

4 Jun 2025

Data centres are under pressure

Energy requirements are rising, not least due to computationally intensive applications in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). At the same time, ESG targets and regulatory requirements such as the EnEfG and the EED are tightening the requirements for energy efficiency and sustainability. In this area of conflict, the focus is shifting to optimising air conditioning – and innovative materials such as plastic profiles are playing an increasingly decisive role in this.

Rising heat loads due to AI and HPC

Modern data centres are no longer just classic server farms. They are increasingly running applications from areas such as machine learning, autonomous driving and big data analytics. These applications require high-performance computers that generate enormous amounts of heat.

Cooling these server systems has become one of the key challenges:

Higher packing densities lead to greater heat loads per rack
Uneven heat distribution requires precise airflow and separation
Energy efficiency targets require minimisation of cooling costs per IT performance unit

Plastic profiles for cold/hot aisle containment

A proven approach to increasing efficiency is known as cold or hot aisle containment: cold and warm air flows are spatially separated from each other to prevent short circuits in the airflow and increase the effectiveness of cooling. The key to this is a precise airflow system with tight barriers and stable frame structures.

Plastic profiles as structural and functional elements:
Frame constructions for containment systems,
Support profiles for doors, panels and seals in ventilation and air conditioning units (HVAC/AHU)
Air ducts and baffles for targeted airflow control

Advantages of plastic over metal:

Thermal properties

Plastic conducts heat less efficiently than metal – thermal separation enables significantly higher efficiency levels in climate management systems.

Weight

Plastic profiles are significantly lighter than aluminium or steel profiles. This facilitates installation, reduces static loads and enables flexible installations – especially in existing buildings.

Corrosion resistance

Depending on the location, data centres can be subject to high humidity and chemically aggressive gases. Plastic is resistant to many of these media, which increases the longevity of the system.

Relevance for ESG and regulations

Ambitious targets have been set in Europe with the regulatory requirements: data centres are to be climate-neutral by 2030. At the same time, investors, customers and banks are increasingly demanding proof of sustainability as part of their reporting obligations.

Advantages of plastic profiles:

Weight savings and lower energy consumption during production and transport
Longer service life and low maintenance costs
Improved energy efficiency of air conditioning

Plastic profiles contribute to the sustainable modernisation of data centres. Intelligent airflow optimises operating conditions and reduces energy costs.