The Cooling Challenge for AI Infrastructure
AI workloads are pushing data centers beyond traditional limits. With racks consuming 50kW to 100kW or more, cooling has shifted from a facility concern to a foundational infrastructure challenge. Operators today must plan for high-density deployments without sacrificing speed, scalability, or long-term flexibility.
In this environment, the ability to deploy high-capacity cooling infrastructure that adapts to both retrofit constraints and greenfield ambitions is a competitive necessity.
Proven, Flexible, Modular Cooling with EcoCore COOL CDU
Nautilus EcoCore COOL is a modular, high-capacity Cooling Distribution Unit (CDU) engineered for scalability. Supporting 2000kW of cooling at 12ยฐC (22ยฐF) ฮT per unit and capable of parallel operation across 2 to 6 units, EcoCore COOL enables operators to achieve 10MW+ deployments without needing bespoke systems or extended lead times. Combined with intelligent pressure control and built-in degassing and filtration systems, the platform delivers:
- Leak-proof operation
- Superior thermal performance
- Compatibility with direct-to-chip, immersion, rear-door, and hot aisle cooling
Itโs not a concept. Itโs in the field now.
Case in Point: Start Campus
In Sines, Portugal, Nautilus deployed 6 EcoCore COOL CDUs to support 10MW+ of cooling capacity for AI workloads. Nautilus supported the full hydronics design and build out. The entire install was completed in just 12 weeks, with the CDU install only taking 2 weeks. The deployment demonstrated:
- Seamless scaling to meet 50kW+ per rack densities
- Deployment via regional integrators for speed and efficiency
- Modular layout enabling future capacity growth
Deployment Scenarios: Retrofit vs. Greenfield
Nautilus CDUs are uniquely suited to meet diverse deployment needs without compromising performance.
Retrofit Configuration
For facilities constrained by architectural limitations (tight corridors, raised floors, legacy MEP layouts), CDUs can be installed inside mechanical galleries or repurposed equipment rooms. Their modular form factor, side-stream/full-stream filtration options, and vendor-agnostic compatibility make them ideal for modernizing without tearing down existing infrastructure.
Greenfield Configuration
For new builds or expansive hyperscale designs, EcoCore COOL units can be skidded into pre-integrated infrastructure modules. This prefabricated approach accelerates timelines while supporting massive cooling blocks at 5MW, 10MW, and beyond.
With optional factory-integrated parallel operation, these skids function as drop-in high-capacity cooling modules with minimal onsite assembly.
Why Flexibility Matters
AI infrastructure needs are diverse. Some operators need to scale inside legacy facilities. Others are building new campuses from the ground up. A one-size-fits-all cooling solution simply doesnโt exist.
EcoCore COOL gives operators options:
- Rapid deployment for AI readiness in under 16 weeks
- Adaptability to existing or future infrastructure
- Proven performance across diverse deployment environments
Itโs a modular platform that grows with your needsโfrom early-stage retrofits to hyperscale, AI-native design.
There’s more to come
When it comes to looking to the future and addressing needs for a singular, ultra-high-capacity CDU that can be dropped anywhere, or smaller, more compact solutions, Nautilus is continuing to lead liquid cooling infrastructure and CDUs and will be releasing what’s next soon.
With Nautilus, you’re aligned for the future of AI demands
Cooling has become a strategic decision in the age of AI. Whether retrofitting existing sites or launching new campuses, operators need solutions that are ready now, scale without compromise, and perform under pressure.
EcoCore COOL delivers that flexibilityโwith real-world deployments, proven capacity, and the modularity to meet whatever comes next.
Contact us to discuss your retrofit or greenfield liquid cooling strategy.
