Redefining Hydronic Infrastructure for D2C Liquid Cooling
As data centres evolve to support artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing, cooling infrastructure is under unprecedented pressure. Rack densities are surpassing 100kW, pushing traditional air-based systems beyond their limits. Direct-to-chip liquid cooling (DLC) is emerging as the preferred solution, but unlocking its full potential requires more than advanced cooling units. It requires rethinking the entire hydronic infrastructure.
From component optimisation to system thinking
Much of the industry focus today is placed on visible components such as cold plates and cooling distribution units (CDUs). However, DLC is not a collection of isolated technologies – it is a closed-loop system connecting facility water systems (FWS), technology cooling systems (TCS) and the chip itself. Within this loop, piping plays a critical role in maintaining flow stability, coolant purity and long-term reliability.
The hidden constraints of conventional piping
Traditionally, metal piping has been the standard in data centre cooling systems. While familiar, it presents challenges in modern DLC environments. Over time, corrosion can occur within metal systems, releasing particles into the coolant. In high-performance cooling loops, even small levels of contamination can lead to fouling in microchannel cold plates, reducing heat transfer efficiency and increasing maintenance requirements.
In addition, corrosion and scaling increase surface roughness, leading to higher pressure loss and reduced hydraulic performance over time. To compensate, systems often require more complex filtration and chemical treatment, adding cost and operational complexity without addressing the root cause.
Installation is another factor. Metal piping is heavy and typically requires on-site welding, increasing project timelines and introducing variability. In an industry where speed and precision are critical, these constraints are becoming increasingly limiting. As a result, the industry is shifting toward more engineered approaches to hydronic infrastructure.
A shift toward engineered hydronic solutions
High-performance polymer piping systems offer a compelling alternative. Being inherently corrosion-free, they eliminate the risk of internal degradation and particle contamination, helping to maintain coolant purity throughout the system’s lifecycle. Their smooth internal surfaces ensure stable hydraulic performance, reducing friction losses and enabling predictable flow behaviour.
From a project execution perspective, polymer systems are significantly lighter, making them easier to handle and install. They also support a high degree of prefabrication, allowing piping modules to be assembled off-site and delivered ready for installation. This reduces on-site work, shortens timelines and improves overall quality.
Sustainability is another important consideration. Polymer piping systems typically have a lower embodied carbon footprint compared to metal alternatives, supporting data centre operators in achieving environmental targets while scaling infrastructure.
As data centres continue to evolve, cooling must be approached as a system—not just a set of components. Hydronic infrastructure plays a foundational role in enabling performance, reliability, and scalability.
Georg Fischer is a global leader in flow solutions, delivering mission-critical products and services for the safe and sustainable transport of water and other fluids. With more than 60 years of expertise in advanced polymer piping systems for high-tech industries, Georg Fischer supports data center operators with reliable and efficient cooling infrastructure.
Founded in 1802 and headquartered in Switzerland, Georg Fischer employs approximately 13,300 people across 46 countries. In 2025, Georg Fischer generated sales of CHF 3 billion and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange
