The APC InRow SC cooling system delivers targeted, aisle-specific cooling for data centers, enabling higher server density with lower energy use. By placing cooling directly alongside IT racks, it minimizes airflow losses and reduces overall cooling costs. The solution is designed for scalable deployments, precise temperature control, and streamlined management within modern infrastructure environments.
What Is APC InRow SC Cooling System
The APC InRow SC cooling system is a compact, aisle-focused cooling unit from Schneider Electric designed to fit between server racks. It provides direct cold air into the rack row while extracting warm air through an integrated condenser or through a dedicated return path. This approach yields improved cooling efficiency, reduced fan heat, and better containment compatibility. It is compatible with standard data center architectures and supports deployment alongside traditional computer room air conditioning (CRAC) or computer room cooling (CRAC) units for hybrid cooling strategies.
Key Features And Benefits
Targeted, Row-Based Cooling
The InRow SC delivers cooling where it is most needed—at the source. By aligning cooling with the IT load, it minimizes oversupply and improves Delta T control. This reduces energy consumption compared with perimeter cooling approaches and supports higher IT density per rack.
Precision Temperature And Humidity Control
Each unit maintains tight temperature and humidity setpoints to protect equipment and workloads. Integrated sensors monitor supply air temperature, room temperature, and humidity, enabling adaptive control to respond to changing IT conditions.
Scalability And Modularity
The InRow SC system is designed to grow with a data center. Modules can be added to expand cooling capacity in increments, aligning with IT growth without a full system replacement. This modularity also supports phased data center upgrades and easier capacity planning.
Energy Efficiency And Cost Reduction
By focusing cooling at the row level, the system reduces compressor and fan workloads and lowers overall power usage effectiveness (PUE). The result is lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint for facilities with dense racks and high-performance workloads.
Seamless Integration With Management Platforms
The InRow SC integrates with Schneider Electric’s Struxure IT and EcoStruxure management stacks, enabling remote monitoring, automated controls, and proactive maintenance alerts. Operators can track cooling performance, alarms, and energy metrics from a unified dashboard.
How It Works
The InRow SC operates as an inline cooling unit placed between racks in a data center aisle. It draws warm air from the room, cools it using an integrated condenser and evaporator, then supplies chilled air directly into the rack row. Key operational components include:
- Airflow Path: Cold supply air is directed toward IT equipment intakes, while warm exhaust air rises and returns to the unit or exits to a dedicated return path.
- Cooling Circuit: A closed-loop refrigeration circuit manages refrigerant flow to the evaporator, with options for economizers and free cooling in suitable climates.
- Controls and Sensors: Temperature, humidity, and occupancy/airflow sensors feed a control algorithm that modulates fan speed, valve positions, and refrigerant flow.
- Containment Compatibility: The system complements containment strategies, improving containment effectiveness and reducing re-entrainment of hot air.
Performance And Specifications
The APC InRow SC is designed to deliver consistent cooling with predictable performance across varied workload profiles. While exact specifications vary by model and configuration, typical performance indicators include precise supply air temps near IT intake, adjustable setpoints, and scalable cooling capacity per aisle. For accurate figures, consult the latest product brochure and datasheet from Schneider Electric.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | Modular options with scalable tonnage per aisle; higher-density racks supported through additional modules |
| Target Supply Temperature | Typically adjustable within a defined range to suit IT loads |
| Controls | Integrated sensors; connectivity to Struxure IT/EcoStruxure for monitoring |
| Efficiency | Row-based cooling reduces energy waste and improves PUE |
| Installation | Rack-row mounting between rows; compatible with standard raised-floor or containment-enabled layouts |
Airflow Management And Site Considerations
Effective implementation of the APC InRow SC relies on proper airflow design. Key considerations include:
- Containment Strategy: Pairing with hot or cold aisle containment can maximize efficiency by reducing mixing of air streams.
- Rack Density And Load: High-density workloads benefit most from row-based cooling; plan capacity accordingly.
- Floor Plan And Cable Management: Ensure clear access paths for air distribution and maintenance, with minimal obstructions in front of supply vents.
- Environment And Climate: In some climates, economizers or free cooling options may augment performance, lowering energy usage further.
Integration And Management
Seamless integration with building and data center management systems is a hallmark of the APC InRow SC. Key integration points include:
- Management Platforms: Struxure IT and EcoStruxure provide centralized visibility into cooling health, energy consumption, and alarms.
- Automation: Control loops can automatically adjust fan speeds and refrigerant flow in response to IT load changes.
- Alarms And Analytics: Proactive alerts help prevent hotspots, equipment failures, and unexpected downtime.
- Maintenance: Routine filter and coil cleaning, refrigerant charge checks, and sensor calibration sustain optimal performance.
Installation And Maintenance Best Practices
To maximize benefits from the APC InRow SC cooling system, follow these best practices:
- Site Preparation: Verify floor loading, electrical service adequacy, and space for service access around each unit.
- Initial Commissioning: Calibrate temperature setpoints, test containment effectiveness, and validate sensor accuracy during the first weeks of operation.
- Regular Diagnostics: Schedule periodic checks of refrigerant levels, coil cleanliness, and filter condition to maintain efficiency.
- Performance Review: Track cooling metrics and compare against baseline to identify opportunities for optimization, such as rebalancing aisles or adjusting setpoints.