LONGWELL's Innovative EC FanWall Technology Cuts Energy Use by 38% in Next-Gen AI Data Centers
LONGWELL, established in 1990 and based in Ningbo, China, is at the forefront of cooling technology with its new EC FanWall innovation. This advanced system is designed specifically for AI data centers, where energy efficiency has become critical. The introduction of the LWBE3G-Plug Fan platform signifies a major leap forward in managing the ever-increasing thermal demands faced by data centers today.
In collaboration with one of the world's leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in precision cooling, LONGWELL has demonstrated an impressive capability by transitioning from specification design to mass production in just 90 days. The results are striking: a 38% reduction in the energy consumption of CRAH fans, and a significant improvement in the performance efficiency of the cooling system, with the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) metric dropping from 1.42 to 1.28.
As the capacity for computational power in AI systems surges, the heat output per rack has escalated dramatically over the past two years, evolving from 15-20 kW to as high as 100 kW, with next-gen platforms already surpassing that threshold. In this high-demand environment, the selection of fan technology is not merely a component choice; it becomes crucial for achieving energy efficiency targets.
LONGWELL’s comprehensive approach addresses the entire air flow chain, offering LWBE3G EC plug fans for CRAH/CRAC applications, LWAE3G EC axial fans for condensers and cooling towers, all equipped with Modbus control, automatic N+1 redundancy, and optional bearing vibration sensors. These sensors provide advance warnings of impending failures, potentially alerting operators 30 to 90 days before the end of the component’s lifespan. This proactive maintenance capability helps ensure uninterrupted operation and maximizes the lifespan of critical cooling equipment.
The data generated from real-world applications of this technology showcases significant reductions in sound levels, with noise output dropping by 6.5 dB(A), contributing to a more pleasant operational environment.
Furthermore, LONGWELL initially secured an order for 1,500 units, with a framework agreement in place covering a minimum annual uptake of 60,000 units from 2025 to 2027. The company has already delivered over 80,000 units in 2025 alone, highlighting the rapid adoption of this state-of-the-art cooling technology.
CEO Bruce Li emphasized the transformative impact of AI on data center cooling, stating, "At the 60 kW per rack mark, the choice of fans transitions from being a mere component option—it's critical in determining whether a PUE target can be attained." This underscores the essential role LONGWELL's solutions play in the ongoing evolution of infrastructure that supports AI-driven enterprises.
For those interested in more detailed specifications, the complete 28-page ‘Data Center Cooling Pack’ is available online at LONGWELL's website, providing in-depth insights into their innovative cooling solutions tailored for the data center sectors.
Overall, LONGWELL's commitment to energy efficiency and operational excellence reaffirms its position as a key player in the evolving landscape of data center technology, and it reflects a growing commitment to sustainability in an industry facing intense energy demands.