Edenaire delivers energy-efficient cooling for next generation of BT

Edenaire has started delivering custom-built, energy-efficient air-handling units as part of a major programme to provide cooling in switching centres and exchanges as BT continues the roll-out of its 21st-century network (21CN). This project is replacing the PSTN network with a new network based IP technology as the common carrier for all systems, products and services — including voice and data. A phased approach will see 80% of BT customers using the new network by 2008, with the switch completed by 2010. Edenaire is involved in the pilot network in Cardiff and surrounding areas, where BT is changing around 35 000 lines. ‘A by-product of the advances in computing and telecommunications is that the hardware generates phenomenal quantities of heat,’ says Rob Jones, telecomms cooling manager. ‘As a solutions-led business, Edenaire was able to tackle the issues and design an energy-efficient solution that met BT’s specific requirements.’ BT’s primary requirement is a precision air-controlled environment — combined with reliability, low cost and maximising the use of fresh air to save energy. Using the latest advances in fans, controller, software and mechanical components, Edenaire has developed a high-specification, low-cost solution based around its eBTX range with a 50% increase in energy efficiency. Equipment has been tested at designated exchanges for performance, reliability and energy efficiency. Further trials involved Edenaire transforming exchanges designated as test sites for the network in Cambridge and Woolwich. Edenaire created turnkey facilities with fresh-air cooling as the main method for cooling equipment. Four 30 kW eBTX air handlers were installed in each data room to deliver 120 kW of cooling on an n+1 principle.

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