ABB Strengthens Partnership with Applied Digital
ABB, a leader in electrification and automation, has taken a significant step by expanding its collaboration with Applied Digital, a prominent builder of high-performance data centers. This enhanced partnership aims to equip Applied Digital's new AI Factory campus with cutting-edge medium voltage power technology, emphasizing their commitment to innovation in power infrastructure.
Details of the Partnership
The partnership, centered in North Dakota, is geared towards constructing a second AI Factory campus, aptly named the Polaris Forge 2 campus. This ambitious project is designed to support the increasing power demands associated with artificial intelligence workloads. ABB's medium voltage electrical infrastructure serves as the backbone for these large-scale data centers, marking an important milestone in their collaborative journey.
Powering the Future of AI Data Centers
Polaris Forge 2 boasts a massive 300 MW capacity, which will be rolled out across two buildings slated to be operational in the coming years. This campus has been specially engineered for future expansion, ensuring scalability as the demand for data and computation continues to surge. ABB will furnish the site with advanced electrical architecture that is designed for maximum efficiency, contributing to an industry-leading low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).
Impact on the Industry
As Todd Gale, the Chief Development Officer at Applied Digital, eloquently stated, the partnership with ABB is a testament to their vision of transforming data center capabilities. This new facility not only signifies an enhancement in scale and performance but positions Applied Digital as a pioneer in high-performance, energy-efficient AI infrastructure.
Innovative Solutions for Modern Needs
These pioneering advancements in power architecture are critical, as ABB collaborates with industry innovators to set new benchmarks for large-scale AI facilities. ABB Smart Power President, Massimiliano Cifalitti, commented on the importance of their joint efforts in optimizing efficiency and reducing costs. By establishing a strategic alliance, both teams have identified numerous pathways to enhance performance and reliability in data center operations.
Leasing to Major Players
Recent announcements indicate that the initial capacity at the Polaris Forge 2 campus will be leased to a major US-based hyperscaler, highlighting the project's significance in the commercial landscape. Furthermore, this collaboration builds upon earlier successes, as ABB is also involved in supporting Applied Digital's first AI Factory campus, Polaris Forge 1, which is set to have an even larger capacity of 400 MW.
Next-Generation Power Solutions
Both Polaris campuses will leverage ABB’s state-of-the-art HiPerGuard medium voltage Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) technology alongside crucial medium voltage switchgear. By transitioning from traditional low voltage systems to a medium voltage framework, data centers like these can achieve greater power density and efficiency, paving the way for scalable, reliable operations in increasingly demanding environments.
About ABB
ABB stands out as a global authority in electrification and automation, consistently promoting sustainability and resource efficiency. With over a century of expertise, ABB empowers industries by enhancing operational performance through its engineering and digital solutions. Their vision encapsulates the notion of 'Engineered to Outrun', reflecting their dedication to innovation and excellence. With a workforce of about 110,000 employees worldwide, ABB’s influence extends far and wide, showcasing their pivotal role in powering the future of technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of ABB's partnership with Applied Digital?
The partnership primarily aims to supply innovative power technology for AI-ready data centers, focusing on medium voltage infrastructure.
Where is the new AI Factory campus located?
The Polaris Forge 2 campus is located in North Dakota and covers a capacity of 300 MW.
How many buildings will the Polaris Forge 2 campus have?
This campus is planned to consist of two major buildings designed for phased rollout in the coming years.
What types of technology will ABB provide?
ABB will supply medium voltage electrical architecture and UPS technology, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the data center operations.
How does this partnership impact the AI infrastructure landscape?
This collaboration positions Applied Digital as a leader in delivering cutting-edge, energy-efficient infrastructure for AI workloads, setting new industry standards.
