Data Centers: External Cooling Systems

Advanced External Cooling Solutions

External cooling systems are vital to data center operations, removing heat from servers and equipment while maintaining stable conditions. By transferring heat from the building to the atmosphere, they enable continuous, energy-efficient performance. These systems often use cooling towers, dry coolers, and heat exchangers paired with internal chillers or liquid loops. Valves, actuators, and sensors regulate pressure, flow, and temperature to optimize performance and protect equipment. Precise flow control improves energy efficiency, extends equipment life, and strengthens overall system reliability.

Advanced External Cooling Solutions

Precision Flow for Peak Performance

Overview

External cooling systems are vital to data center operations, removing heat from servers and equipment while maintaining stable conditions. By transferring heat from the building to the atmosphere, they enable continuous, energy-efficient performance. These systems often use cooling towers, dry coolers, and heat exchangers paired with internal chillers or liquid loops. Valves, actuators, and sensors regulate pressure, flow, and temperature to optimize performance and protect equipment. Precise flow control improves energy efficiency, extends equipment life, and strengthens overall system reliability.

Key Products
TYPES: Pipefittings, pumps, tanks, instrumentation, tubinghosevalveshangers and strut MATERIALS: PPR-CT, PVC, CPVC, HDPE, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel KEY FEATURES:
  • High chemical resistance and thermal stability
  • Supports cooling systems, glycol, and other process fluids
  • Integrated accessories, including fiberglass supports and hangers, as well as installation tools
  • Ideal for both hyperscale and edge data center environments
Our Solutions
  • Cooling System Expertise
    We provide corrosion-resistant, high-performance piping and fluid-handling systems designed for data center external cooling applications such as condenser water loops, dry coolers, cooling towers, and heat exchangers. Our engineered solutions deliver long-term reliability in harsh outdoor environments while supporting efficient heat removal from liquid cooling systems and facility infrastructure.
  • Sustainability Solutions
    Our products help data centers meet energy efficiency goals, reduce water consumption, and align with carbon neutrality initiatives. This includes closed-loop cooling systems, chemical-free filtration, and high-efficiency pumps.
  • Reliable Product Availability
    With strategically located branch inventories, regional distribution centers, and a fleet of delivery vehicles, we ensure that critical components are always available when you need them. Custom stocking programs are available for high-volume facilities.
  • Pump Services and Repair
    Through PumpMan, part of the Harrington family of companies, we provide sales, service, and repair for all major pump brands used in external cooling systems. From installation and alignment to seal replacements, rebuilds, and performance testing, PumpMan’s field service teams help extend equipment life, improve efficiency, and minimize unplanned downtime.
  • 24/7 Support
    Harrington offers around-the-clock emergency support and order fulfillment to keep your operations running without interruption. Whether you’re troubleshooting a system, handling an urgent repair, or placing a critical order, our team is ready to respond—anytime, day or night.
  • Custom System Support
    Our specialists collaborate with engineers, contractors, and facility managers to design and implement complete external cooling solutions. We assist with material selection, system optimization, and on-site support for both new construction and retrofit applications, helping data centers build scalable and resilient cooling infrastructure.

Stainless Steel Tubing (SS Pipes)

Stainless steel tubing is essential in data centers, supporting cooling systems and reliable fluid transport for critical operations. In chilled water and liquid cooling networks, it provides a strong, corrosion-resistant path for circulating coolants that remove heat from servers and equipment. Used in chilled water loops, condensate drainage, and direct-to-chip cooling, it maintains precise temperature control and prevents leaks or contamination.

Beyond cooling, stainless steel tubing adds strength, fire resistance, and stability under varying conditions. Its durability and recyclability lower maintenance costs, support sustainability, and ensure dependable performance for efficient thermal management and consistent uptime.

  • Custom Stainless-Steel Tube & Fittings

Structural FRP

Structural FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) is increasingly used in data centers for its strength, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties. Unlike traditional steel, FRP does not rust or conduct electricity, making it ideal for environments with high humidity, chemical exposure, or electrical equipment. It is commonly used in platforms, walkways, ladders, and cooling tower structures where durability and safety are essential.

In cooling systems, FRP components resist corrosion from treated water and outdoor exposure, extending system life and reducing maintenance needs. Its lightweight simplifies installation in tight or elevated spaces, while its non-conductive nature enhances safety around sensitive electronics. By combining strength, longevity, and low maintenance, structural FRP supports efficient, reliable, and sustainable data center operations.

  • FRP Products – Stairs, Handrails, Platform, Structural Components, Pipe 

Instrumentation

Instrumentation is a critical component in data centers, enabling precise monitoring and control of fluid systems that manage cooling and other essential processes. Instruments such as flow meters, pressure gauges, temperature sensors, and level switches provide real-time data on water, glycol, or refrigerant lines. This information helps maintain optimal operating conditions, prevents system failures, and ensures efficient heat transfer to keep servers and equipment within safe temperature ranges.

Instrumentation also supports automated control systems, allowing data center operators to adjust flow rates, pressures, and temperatures dynamically. Properly installed and calibrated instruments improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance reliability. By delivering accurate insights into fluid behavior and system performance, pipe instrumentation helps maintain uptime, safeguard equipment, and optimize cooling in high-density data center environments.

  • Instrumentation – Level, Flow, Temperature 
  • Control Valves 

Pipes (PVC, CPVC, FRP)

PVC, or CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride), is widely used in data centers for its lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy-to-install properties. It is commonly employed in chilled water systems, condensate drains, and chemical lines where moderate temperatures and pressures exist. Its chemical resistance prevents scaling and corrosion, helping maintain system performance while reducing maintenance and installation time.

Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) is valued for its strength, durability, and non-conductive properties. Often used in cooling towers, outdoor piping, and elevated structures, FRP resists moisture, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations. Its lightweight design simplifies installation in tight spaces, providing long-term, low-maintenance, and reliable fluid system solutions for data centers.

  • Industrial PVC/CPVC pipe & fittings 
  • Stress-less Pipe Clamps and HDPE Specialty Piping 
  • Manual Valves, Actuated Valves 
  • Strainers and Y-strainers 
  • Double-Containment Piping 
  • FRP Piping
  • Drainage Piping 
  • Insulated Piping

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