Liquid Cooled Data Center: Panel Discussion at NFPA 2025

Posted by ORR Protection on Apr 16, 2025 3:51:04 PM

nfpa1

Fire Protection Considerations for the Liquid Cooled Data Center:
Key Insights from Industry Experts Panel Discussion at NFPA 2025

As liquid cooling technology gains traction in data centers, industry leaders are coming together to discuss its implications for safety, regulations, and future standards. In an upcoming panel discussion hosted by NFPA, moderated by our own Lee Kaiser, experts from five companies will share their perspectives, addressing key questions with supporting slides.

Wednesday, June 18, 2025
2 - 3 pm
South Pacific GH (North Convention Center, Level 0, Mandalay Bay)

Key Stakeholders & Perspectives
This discussion will focus on the concerns of critical stakeholders, including:

  • Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
  • Insurance companies
  • Consultants

One of the panel's primary goals is to explore necessary updates to NFPA 75 to better accommodate liquid cooling in data centers and ensure safety and operations. 

Clarifying Concerns for AHJs
A critical part of the discussion will be addressing AHJ concerns and misconceptions. The message is clear: liquid cooling does not make data centers more dangerous, but it does introduce new considerations, including:

  • The convergence of different hazards around liquid-cooled data centers.
  • Understanding refrigerants in use — no known flammable refrigerants are currently being used.
  • Glycol cooling mixtures are 40% or less, making them non-flammable.
  • Increased use of lithium-ion batteries in liquid-cooled data centers.
  • High airflow environments remain a key factor.
  • More concentrated power delivery introduces new challenges.
  • Potential leakage risks in liquid-cooled data centers.

This panel discussion will serve as an important step toward refining industry standards and ensuring that liquid cooling is effectively integrated into modern data center designs. 

If you will be at NFPA, we invite you to attend our panel discussion and meet with our experts for follow-up conversations.

CONNECT WITH US!

Topics: Data Center, NFPA,

Featured Download

Subscribe to the Fire Protection Blog