Procurement notes for 5–20 MW data-center projects and phased expansions.
These notes explain the information that makes an equipment search useful. They are SmartBuy’s sourcing recommendations informed by manufacturer documentation; the project engineer confirms the final design and acceptance requirements.
Match the electrical configuration before the capacity
A UPS shortlist needs more than a kVA rating. Eaton’s published 93PM specifications distinguish input and output voltage, three-wire and four-wire configurations, frequency, battery voltage and bypass options. A product-family name alone does not establish the configuration of a specific surplus unit.
SmartBuy’s RFQ recommendation: Provide the required input, output and bypass voltage; frequency; phase and neutral arrangement; kW and kVA; runtime target; and the current one-line diagram. Request unit-specific nameplates, the manufacturer’s configuration documentation and engineering approval for any proposed adaptation.
Source: Eaton 93PM technical specifications.
Make generator testing part of the purchasing discussion
Cummins describes load-bank testing as a way to exercise standby power equipment under load and document performance. Its technical paper on rated-power-factor testing also explains why a resistive-load test and a test at rated power factor measure different demands on the generator system.
SmartBuy’s RFQ recommendation: Ask for serial-specific operating hours, service records, rating and nameplate data, and the available test report. Define the required test conditions, who witnesses acceptance, who pays for testing, and whether the release date includes testing and preparation for shipment. A planned test date is different from a completed test report.
Sources: Cummins power-generation service solutions and Cummins rated-power-factor testing guidance.
Define the CDU’s place in the cooling system
Schneider Electric describes liquid-to-liquid CDUs as separating facility water from the IT cooling loop. Its startup-service documentation makes installation verification against manufacturer requirements part of deployment. The CDU should therefore be qualified as part of the cooling system, with the connected loops and startup path understood.
SmartBuy’s RFQ recommendation: Share the required cooling duty and the rating conditions used by the project engineer, facility-water availability, temperature and flow requirements, coolant requirements, electrical supply, controls interface and connection details. Confirm the unit-specific documentation, startup support and acceptable condition before comparing equipment offers.
Sources: Schneider Electric floor-mounted CDU overview and Liquid-to-liquid CDU startup service.
Start with your project’s next procurement milestone
Tell us what equipment is needed, where the project is located, and when delivery or energization is required. Include the planned facility size and current phase so we can focus on the equipment package that matters now.
More Sourcing Guidance
Practical checklists for evaluating equipment fit, condition and procurement timing.
