Flow control for modern thermal management

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, industrial automation and IoT is driving continuous expansion of data center infrastructure worldwide. As computing density increases, servers generate higher thermal loads that must be managed efficiently to ensure uninterrupted operation.

To meet these demands, many facilities are adopting chilled water and liquid cooling technologies. These solutions circulate coolant through Cooling Distribution Units (CDUs), heat exchangers and piping networks, where stable flow control is essential to maintain system performance.

Ball valves play a key role in these systems by enabling controlled flow regulation, secure isolation of equipment during maintenance, and integration with automated actuation systems. Their reliability directly impacts system uptime, energy efficiency, and operational safety.
 

 

Ball valves for cooling system: performance requirements

Data center cooling systems rely on the controlled circulation of a cooling medium through complex piping networks. Maintaining stable flow conditions is essential to ensure effective heat removal and consistent equipment performance. Any failure within this circuit can result in coolant leaks, reduced efficiency, system imbalance and, in critical cases, costly downtime.

For this reason, several factors should be considered when selecting ball valves for data center cooling applications, including:

• Sealing performance: long-term leak-tight operation to minimize coolant loss;
• Durability: components should ensure consistent performance under continuous operation with low maintenance needs;
• Automation capability: compatibility with electric or pneumatic actuators for integrated control systems. 

With more than 70 years of experience, RuB applies its industrial know-how to modern cooling requirements, engineering and manufacturing brass ball valves through rigorous processes and testing procedures. 

 

RuB ball valve solutions for cooling applications

For automated shut-off and remote flow control, RuB recommends the S.64 full-port brass ball valve combined with the Compact Power (CP) electric actuator. This configuration is designed for OEM manufacturers of Cooling Distribution Units (CDUs), chilled water systems and liquid cooling equipment who require compact design, reliable sealing and electric actuation.

Available in sizes from 1/2" to 4" with female NPT threads, the S.64 series is rated up to 600 PSI (up to 2") and 450 PSI (over 2") non-shock cold working pressure, with an operating temperature range from -4°F to +350°F. It features special seat design to automatically compensate for wear, ensuring consistent long-term sealing performance, proven by 100,000-cycle life test and covered by RuB lifetime warranty. The S.64 series is also available with stainless steel trim. 

The Compact Power actuator is available in both AC and DC versions and combines a brushless motor with IP67 / NEMA 4X protection to ensure reliable operation in demanding industrial environments. Its compact dimensions make installation easy even where available space is limited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In systems where coolants must be diverted, the RuB S.76 3-way brass ball valve provides an effective solution. Typical applications include bypass lines, primary and secondary cooling loops and other circuits requiring flow diversion. 

Available in sizes from 1/2" to 2" with female NPT threads, the RuB S.76 is rated up to 450 PSI (up to 1") and 300 PSI for larger sizes, with a maximum seat differential pressure of 100 PSI and an operating temperature range from -4°F to +302°F.

Like the S.64 Series, the S.76 features a design that automatically compensates for wear over time and use, meeting RuB 100,000-cycle life test requirements and offering a lifetime warranty.

Choosing the right ball valve for data center cooling

The performance of a cooling system depends on the reliability of every component in the circuit. Selecting ball valves engineered for long service life and dependable sealing helps reduce maintenance, improve system availability and support continuous uptime.

With a comprehensive portfolio of ball valves and actuators, RuB provides solutions for cooling distribution units, facility cooling loops, chilled water systems, and advanced liquid cooling applications.

For detailed technical information, please refer to the product datasheets available on our website or contact the RuB team to discuss your project requirements and identify the most suitable solution for your application.