Expansive cooling solutions: Gates Corporation's MegaFlex line

Gates Corporation has announced an expansion of its Data Master MegaFlex hose series, intended to support cooling systems in modern data centres. The introduction of 3-inch and 4-inch inner diameter hoses is designed to meet increased cooling capacities and flow requirements for next-generation AI, hyperscale, and high-performance computing (HPC) facilities.

As data centre power densities rise beyond 150kW per rack, high flow-rate coolant solutions are becoming increasingly important. The expanded MegaFlex line is designed to provide flexibility, durability, and flow capacity for large-diameter cooling applications, enabling data centre designers and operators to build scalable cooling systems aligned with increasing liquid cooling requirements.

Key Features of the Expansion

• OCP Compliant: The larger-bore hoses align with Open Compute Project liquid cooling guidelines, supporting high-flow, low-pressure-drop performance and routing and material compatibility requirements.
• Application Versatility: Designed for use in technology cooling system source lines and Coolant Distribution Units (CDUs), enabling additional application use cases.
• System Hygiene: The zinc-free peroxide-cured EPDM tube material is designed to support coolant purity and reduce contamination risks.
• Efficient Installation: A tighter minimum bend radius compared with alternative solutions reduces kinking and rework, and may reduce the need for rigid steel piping connections.
• Enhanced Capacity: Larger inner diameters support increased coolant flow across data centre cooling circuits to support heat dissipation.
• Reduced Pressure Drop: Lower hydraulic resistance reduces pump head requirements and improves cooling loop efficiency.

A recent data centre expansion highlighted the use of MegaFlex hoses in a project where engineers were working within space constraints and tight timelines. The zinc-free and kink-resistant properties of the MegaFlex line supported required flow rates for cooling loop distribution and CDU integration. Gates’ local distribution supported the project by providing hose assemblies tailored to specifications, helping maintain project timelines and installation workflows.

The expansion of the Data Master MegaFlex range reflects the growing demand for higher-capacity liquid cooling components in data centre environments with increasing thermal loads.