Vertiv unveils SmartRun for rapid AI data centre growth

Vertiv has introduced Vertiv SmartRun, a prefabricated overhead IT infrastructure system designed to support data centre IT pods with integrated power distribution, liquid cooling, and containment solutions in a single modular unit that can be scaled and configured for high-density artificial intelligence workloads.

The Vertiv SmartRun system combines key infrastructure components into one prefabricated solution, including high-density power distribution busbars, liquid cooling piping, hot-aisle containment, and network infrastructure. According to the company, this configuration aims to reduce complexity and expedite deployment for cloud-based and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in new and retrofit data centre environments.

Vertiv states that Smartrun's prefabricated assembly allows for a plug-and-play design, with a simplified installation process intended to accelerate project timelines. Citing internal assessments, the company claims that SmartRun can be installed up to 85% faster on-site compared to traditional stick-build methods, supporting the fitting out of data centres with capacities exceeding 1mw per day using a single installation crew.

The system's single-lift installation approach and pre-designed nature are highlighted as key attributes in reducing labour requirements for the engineering review and installation of core components, including busway, piping, network cabling, and hot-aisle containment. Vertiv positions the solution as suitable for operators aiming to address the demands of high-density computing environments while maintaining project efficiency.

Vertiv has incorporated a secondary fluid network into the SmartRun system design to address integrating new heat removal technologies increasingly required in AI-driven data centres. The system utilises prefabricated stainless steel piping to streamline the design, fabrication, and startup processes, which the company asserts can offer a single-source solution for liquid cooling infrastructure across the data centre.

Viktor Petik, Senior Vice President of Infrastructure Solutions at Vertiv, said, "As digital infrastructure demands evolve, organisations require solutions that accelerate growth without adding complexity. Vertiv SmartRun is a strategic investment in high-density, prefabricated infrastructure that brings operational agility and enables seamless expansion to support the future of high-density computing."

The company is supporting the new product with Vertiv Liquid Cooling Services and Vertiv Services, a global network of trained experts offering installation, maintenance, and optimisation for liquid-cooled infrastructure. Vertiv states that these services are intended to aid in efficient thermal management and reliability in data centres handling power-dense computing workloads.

Vertiv operates across more than 130 countries and focuses on providing hardware, software, analytics, and ongoing services to support critical applications in data centres, communication networks, and various industrial facilities. The company's offerings cover infrastructure, power, cooling, and IT solutions for cloud and edge computing environments.