LG Introduces High-Efficiency Chiller for AI Data Centers

At the core of the LG ACC is an oil-free, magnetic-bearing centrifugal compressor. By using magnetic force to suspend the rotating compressor shaft, the design eliminates the need for lubricating oil, reducing mechanical friction losses and improving compression performance.

The chiller also incorporates refrigerant free-cooling technology, using outdoor air to reduce the compressor’s cooling load. Unlike conventional free-cooling systems, it circulates refrigerant directly without an intermediate heat exchanger and does not require glycol, minimizing heat and pressure losses and simplifying maintenance. Based on LG’s internal simulation, refrigerant free-cooling can consume approximately 30% less energy annually than water-side free-cooling, the press release said. Moreover, LG’s series counter-flow (SCF) technology helps maintain balanced operation.

The chiller is designed for consistent cooling and reliable AIDC operations. Its gap sensor, integrated into the magnetic bearing system, precisely detects the rotation axis to enable accurate control. Machine learning capabilities allow the chiller to adapt to operating patterns, helping reduce surges. During a power outage, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides emergency power, allowing the shaft to stop safely and lowering the potential for bearing damage. It also has a fast-recovery feature that restores cooling capacity within three minutes upon power restoration.

LG is also strengthening its control and operation capabilities with Data Center Cooling Management (DCCM) software that enables integrated monitoring and data-driven control across complex cooling infrastructures. DCCM supports continuous operation through early anomaly detection and sensor-based diagnostics. It contributes to stronger risk management with predictive maintenance, while real-time optimization based on IT workloads can improve operational efficiency.

LG’s proprietary Core Tech is central to the new chiller, encompassing key components such as compressors, motors, inverters, and magnetic bearings. LG chillers and testing facilities are certified in accordance with standards established by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), and LG’s air-cooled chillers have received the AHRI Performance Award for nine consecutive years.

LG chillers meet major global standards and certification requirements, including American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) requirements for pressure vessels, Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) requirements for electrical safety in North America, and Conformité Européenne (CE) requirements covering safety, health, and environmental standards in Europe.

“As AI data centers become increasingly dense and heat-intensive, energy-efficient, reliable cooling is more critical than ever,” said James Lee, president of LG Electronics’ Eco Solution Co. “With our Core Tech and data center cooling expertise, we will continue to expand our portfolio of solutions to meet these evolving requirements.”