Power Modules: The Backbone of Modern Data Centers

In a data-driven world where uptime is critical and efficiency is paramount, power modules have emerged as a key component in ensuring data centers operate smoothly. These vital building blocks are essential for maintaining the high levels of reliability and productivity that modern data centers demand. If you’re unfamiliar with power modules and how they’re becoming increasingly relevant, let’s start with the basics and learn what power modules are, how they’re used and the benefits of using power modules in data centers.

What are Power Modules?

Power modules are self-contained units that provide a modular approach to power distribution for critical loads within a data center. These modules package electrical equipment together to support mechanical and IT loads. Each module typically includes components such as uninterruptable power supplies (UPS), switchgear, distribution panel boards, transfer switches, electrical power monitoring systems and self-contained HVAC systems, all housed within a single purpose-built enclosure. These modules are designed to be scalable, allowing data centers to expand their power capacity as their needs grow without significant infrastructure changes. 

How do Power Modules work?

At their core, power modules function by distributing electrical power to various components of the data center, such as servers, networking equipment and cooling systems. They’re designed to handle high loads and provide the data center with stable power during utility blackouts or brownouts. In both cases, power modules provide the critical load while on-site power generation has time to turn on. 

Power modules are highly scalable, and their modularity allows data centers to expand their power capacity incrementally, adding critical infrastructure as they grow. The flexibility of power modules also extends to their placement—many modern data centers now house these modules outside the main facility, freeing up valuable space within the data center for revenue-generating activities. 

Benefits of using Power Modules in data centers

• Uninterruptable power supply (UPS): Power modules provide intermittent battery backup, ensuring continuous operation when the power goes out. When the power supply is interrupted, power modules kick in by switching over to battery power, providing enough time for backup generators to get warmed up and running.
• Scalable and modular: Unlike traditional stick-built electrical rooms, power modules allow data centers to bring new capacity online quickly, all while conserving capital by not over-building on day one. This scalable and modular approach simplifies the installation process and allows for less-skilled electricians on-site, which can help projects stay on schedule. This is especially important given the current shortage of skilled labor in the United States. 
• Reliable and stable: Power modules are designed with redundancy in mind, including features like dual power inputs and automatic transfer switchgear. This ensures that the data center remains operational even if one component fails. This level of reliability is essential for maintaining the continuous operation of critical services.
• Off-site manufactured: Off-site manufactured power modules increase the overall quality of a data center's power distribution system. Off-site manufacturing in a controlled environment, with key manufacturing quality hold points, and test stations, gives the data center operator the comfort of knowing that their critical power load will not be dropped in the event of a power outage.
• Easy to maintain: The modular nature of power modules means that individual units can be serviced or replaced without disrupting the entire power distribution system. This reduces downtime and allows for more straightforward maintenance procedures.

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What sets RK Mission Critical apart? 

RK Mission Critical is renowned for its operational excellence and innovative modular solutions. With facilities spanning 422,000 square feet (including 11 40-ft. wide production lanes!) and a commitment to Lean Six Sigma principles, RK Mission Critical excels in delivering high-quality, high-volume, scalable power modules that meet the most demanding project needs and expedited timelines. Our proprietary product development process, integrated with real-time micro-metrics and built-in quality, safety and productivity, ensures that each project phase is meticulously managed. This process not only reduces concept-to-production time but also guarantees a competitive advantage in the market.

RK Mission Critical is also one of seven business units under the RK Industries umbrella, which provides comprehensive service offerings to ensure that work is kept in-house and rarely subcontracted outside RK Industries. This holistic approach—encompassing in-house structural steel through RK Steel and other trades—enhances efficiency and quality control, which is just one reason why RK Mission Critical is a leading global provider of power module capabilities. 

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To wrap it up…

Power modules are truly the backbone of modern data centers, providing the flexibility, reliability and efficiency needed to meet the demands of today's digital landscape. As data centers continue to evolve, the adoption of power modules—and the innovative solutions provided by RK—will become even more widespread, ensuring that these critical infrastructures remain operational and efficient in the face of growing challenges.

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If you’re looking to explore the possibilities of power modules, the experts at RK Mission Critical are ready to bring your vision to life. Contact us today at 303.355.9696 or email Jesse Davern, VP—Commercial Services, at jesse.davern@rkmissioncritical.com. 

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