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Vending Machine Tech Cools AI Data Centers
3 Oct
Summary
- Fuji Electric repurposes vending machine cooling tech for AI data centers.
- New system claims up to 85% energy consumption reduction.
- Technology uses ejector and CO2 refrigerant, avoiding compressors.
Fuji Electric, Japan's largest vending machine manufacturer, has developed an innovative cooling system for AI data centers by repurposing technology originally designed for its beverage machines. This new system reportedly reduces energy consumption by as much as 85%. The technology, born from a post-2011 Fukushima disaster initiative to enhance vending machine energy efficiency, utilizes an ejector and CO₂ refrigerant, eliminating the need for energy-hungry compressors.
Initially deemed too costly for vending machines, Fuji Electric is now targeting the data center market, projecting sales of over ¥10bn ($61 million) from these ejector systems by 2030. While the technology is considered promising, industry analysts note it is still emerging and faces competition. Commercialization and integration into hyperscale data center architectures are key challenges, with significant market traction expected to take at least two to three years.
The company's strategic shift positions it as a key supplier in AI infrastructure, a move that has already boosted its stock value. Fuji Electric's ejector technology shows particular promise in high-temperature regions, including parts of Japan and Southeast Asia, and could be integrated into direct liquid cooling systems.
