In the field of innovative technology, Kawasaki has long been a name synonymous with groundbreaking advancements and cutting-edge solutions. From motorcycles to heavy machinery, their contributions to various industries have been substantial. However, in recent years, Kawasaki has delved into an area crucial for the modern digital age: data centers.
The surge in internet activity and computing demands has propelled the importance of data centers to unprecedented heights. These facilities serve as the backbone for countless businesses and organizations, requiring uninterrupted operation 24/7. Recognizing this critical need, Kawasaki has developed turbine generators as a reliable backup power solution tailored for data centers.
Turbines as Backup Generators
The significance of backup generators cannot be overstated in the context of data centers. Even a momentary power outage can translate to substantial losses in revenue, productivity, and reputation damage. Thus, the quality and reliability of backup power sources are paramount.
According to Kawasaki, their turbine generators possess several characteristics that make them ideal for data center backup power:
High Power Quality: Turbine engine rotating speed is high (18,000 – 22,000rpm, depending on engine models) and the total inertia is large, typical steady state frequency deviation is within +/‐ 0.3%. Steady state voltage fluctuation is below +/- 2%. Voltage drop at 100% load pickup is below 3.5% and the recovery time is within 2 seconds.
Fast Ramp-Up: It is acceptable for backup turbine generators to apply one step (100%) block loading and shedding within +/‐ 5% of transient frequency deviation. Normally, diesel generators require several steps and take time until they reach their full capacity. Turbine generators can increase operational flexibility.
Excellent Startup Reliability: As a data center needs to continue to function correctly even in the event of a grid power outage, backup generators must supply electric power to data centers during the outage. Kawasaki turbine generators have been showing excellent performance in Japan, which has been hit by earthquakes frequently. For example, 1,219 units out of 1,224 units of Kawasaki backup turbine generators, including five failed units that received improper maintenance by the owner (not Kawasaki responsibility), successfully started up and supplied power in the blackout area at the Great Hanshin Earthquake (1995), Tokyo Area Blackout (2006), and Great East Japan Earthquake (2011). The start-up reliability was 99.6%, including 5 failed units.
Compact Sizes and Light Weight: Turbine engines have a high power density; they are basically compact and lightweight. Kawasaki 6000 kVA turbine generators, for example, need approximately 60% of installation space, and their weight is approximately 50% compared to typical diesel generators to produce the same power. This feature can significantly reduce the size of the data center building and its cost.
Low Noise/Vibration: The turbine generator has an acoustic enclosure, whose noise level is 55 dBA (optional) – 85 dBA (standard) at 1m from the enclosure wall. The noise frequency is higher than that of a reciprocating engine, which is easier to attenuate.
Diesel engines change reciprocation to rotation to rotate an alternator, meanwhile, turbine engines do not have reciprocation. Turbine engines, therefore, have low vibration, which allows for smaller foundations and simpler anti‐vibration measures.
Fuel Flexibility: Both liquid fuel and gas fuel can be used for turbine engines. Turbine engines are ready for biofuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel). Those features of turbine engines can contribute to reducing exhaust gas emissions.
Kawasaki’s backup turbine generators, renowned for their performance, currently hold a 90% market share in turbine generators for data centers in Japan. However, Kawasaki is now expanding its focus beyond Japan to cater to land-constrained areas.
Turbines as Backup Power for DCs in Land-Constrained Areas
In areas where land is limited, such as urban centers and regions, turbine generators present an optimal solution. Kawasaki’s case studies have shown that in the case of the 24 MW IT load project and at PUE = 1.5, by applying turbine generators showed 17% less space and 19% in cost reduction compared to conventional backup power solutions, making them particularly attractive for data center operators and developers.
“Our target area also includes the SIJORI region, especially where land and space are limited or the prices of land are especially high. Turbine generators are a perfect solution for those who are looking for high power quality and compact size,”. Said Takashi Hayashi.
Takashi Hayashi, Sales Director, emphasized the suitability of turbine generators for the SIJORI region, where high land prices and space limitations pose significant challenges.
Additionally, acknowledging Singapore’s pivotal role as a data center hub in the region, Kawasaki is actively promoting the advantages of turbine generators. Their focus on ramp-up performance, compact size, and low noise and vibration aligns with the needs of data center operators, consultants, and engineering firms in Singapore and surrounding Southeast Asian regions.
In an era where digital connectivity reigns supreme, Kawasaki turbine generators’ foray into data center backup power solutions in the SEA region based on abundant experiences in Japan signifies a commitment to reliability, efficiency, and innovation, ensuring seamless operations for businesses in the digital age.
