Schneider Electric has launched its WCDU coolant distribution unit for high-density artificial intelligence data centres. The new unit integrates with fan wall air-cooling systems and supports hybrid air and liquid cooling architectures across different data centre configurations.
The WCDU is designed to give data centre operators greater flexibility in managing the balance between air and liquid cooling. This allows facilities to adapt cooling infrastructure as AI workloads and rack densities develop, without requiring a complete redesign of the data hall.
The unit is designed for installation in the technical corridor outside the white space, where operators can access cooling equipment more easily for servicing and maintenance. Top-entry connections help simplify installation while keeping the data hall clear and improving access for maintenance activities.
The WCDU combines pumps, heat exchangers and other critical components within a single steel frame. Its zero-lateral-clearance design helps maximise available space in both new and existing data centres. The configuration also provides data centre operators using fan wall systems with an option for retrofitting liquid cooling into existing facilities.
A single WCDU can provide cooling capacity of up to 3.5 MW at 1.5 litres per minute per kW. Up to 20 units can operate together in group mode, providing a scalable cooling architecture for data halls in the 30 MW to 40 MW range. The system also supports warmer operating temperatures, which can contribute to improved overall energy efficiency. Its design is aimed at data centres dealing with increasing rack densities and higher thermal loads associated with AI computing.
The WCDU forms part of the Motivair by Schneider Electric portfolio of liquid cooling solutions. The company said the new unit is designed to support the transition towards hybrid cooling architectures as data centre operators accommodate higher-density computing requirements.
The launch comes as data centre operators face growing cooling requirements from AI workloads. Traditional air cooling can face limitations as computing density increases, leading operators to adopt liquid cooling and hybrid architectures. The WCDU provides an approach that allows air and liquid cooling to be deployed within the same facility. The new WCDU is scheduled to begin shipping in select regions from October 2026. Pre-orders in the United States are expected to open in early 2027.
Schneider Electric provides energy management and automation technologies for data centres, buildings, infrastructure and industrial applications. Its data centre portfolio includes power distribution, cooling, automation, monitoring and digital management solutions.
