Amphenol expands liquid-cooling connector range

Amphenol Industrial Operations has expanded its quick disconnect liquid-cooling connector series to meet the thermal and operational needs of large-scale AI datacentres, high-performance computing environments, energy storage systems and electric vehicle charging systems.

The UQD and UQDB connectors have been enhanced to fully comply with the Open Compute Project (OCP) Rev 2.0 specifications. The UQD series offers quick connect technology, while the UQDB features blind mating for easy installation. Improvements to each include fully defined geometry to OCP Rev 2.0 and enhanced flow performance, according to Amphenol. The latest OCP REV 2.0 specification has also developed a hybrid configuration, enabling the UQD plug to mate with a UQDB socket.

With flow performance up to 800 L/min, the semi-hand mate self-sealing connector features a dual interlocking safety mechanism and large-diameter valve designs of 1-inch, 1.5-inch or 2-inch. A source line connector facilitates full-flow, low-resistance liquid cooling between a coolant distribution unit and a manifold (distribution pipe) to minimise pressure drop in high-flow source line applications.

Ty Yesensky, senior product manager – Americas, of Amphenol Industrial Operations, noted: “Data is throttling through high-compute AI datacentres and other demanding energy environments around the clock. These systems require integrated liquid-cooling methods that can handle high levels of heat constantly being generated. Our expanded series ensures reliable connection, minimal pressure loss and consistent integrity for virtually any high-performance, liquid-cooled environment.”

The Multi Quick Disconnect (MQD) incorporates a push-pull locking mechanism in a compact design to provide high-performance and reliability for compact computer tray environments. The MQD comes in 02, 03, and 04 sizes, all of which have a straight version and an elbow 90° right-angle version, ready for the next generation of liquid-cooled systems, claimed the company.

The customisable Optical Module Quick Disconnect (OMQD) can handle cooling systems managing 1.6T and 3.2T data rates. Available in 1mm, 2mm, or 3mm fluid diameters, the OMQD can be hand mated, including a locking mechanism, or blind mated with an optional floating feature.

Amphenol’s new manifold provides the infrastructure for optimal cooling across the entire system, it claimed. Made of durable material, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminium, or durable plastics, the manifold promotes corrosion resistance, while reducing overheating risks and energy use. Customised manifolds are available within short lead times in a range of applications, from high performance data systems to electric vehicles and industrial machinery.

By incorporating a dual safety interlock via a bidirectional ball valve and dry-break, the expanded connector series provides enhanced leak protection during maintenance and servicing as well as helping to prevent valve opening when unmated. Aerospace-grade sealing improves safety and reliability, while low flow resistance increases connector performance, claimed the company.

The new connectors come in a variety of termination options, such as threaded, hose barb and sanitary flange, with customisation available, and the outer shells employ corrosion-resistant stainless steel. EPDM rubber seals provide chemical and thermal resistance against a range of glycol-based coolants, with additional seal options available.

See Amphenol RF adds lengths for SMA cable assembly configuration.