yplasma: Revolutionary Chip Cooling for Data Centers

A Novel Approach to Airflow Control

The technology might appear remarkably advanced, almost like a feat of magic.

David Garcia of YPlasma recently showcased a demonstration video to TechCrunch. The demonstration featured five lit candles positioned before a device resembling a harmonica, complete with attached wiring. Remarkably, the candle flames flickered and were then extinguished.

How the Technology Works

The device utilizes two copper strips carrying electrical current to generate plasmas – essentially clouds of charged particles. These plasmas create airflow within the device’s structure, directing it over the candles.

While a conventional fan could achieve a similar result, YPlasma’s actuator distinguishes itself through its lack of moving components. Furthermore, the copper strips are notably thin and flexible.

“Manufacturing costs are low, the device is exceptionally thin allowing for versatile integration, and energy consumption is minimal,” Garcia explained to TechCrunch.

Compared to a typical laptop fan, which may consume 3 to 4 watts, YPlasma’s actuator requires only 1 watt to provide equivalent cooling. Its adaptable form factor also simplifies integration into increasingly compact consumer electronics.

Industry Recognition and Funding

These characteristics have garnered interest from a leading semiconductor manufacturer.

YPlasma has secured $2.5 million in seed funding, led by Faber with participation from SOSV, to further refine its actuators. This information was shared exclusively with TechCrunch. As part of this investment, YPlasma will conduct its research and development activities from SOSV’s Hax lab in Newark, New Jersey, alongside facilities in Madrid.

The company originated as a spin-off from Spain’s space agency, INTA.

Potential Applications

The ability to manipulate air solely through electrical forces opens up a broad spectrum of potential applications. YPlasma’s website highlights possibilities including improvements to vehicle aerodynamics, satellite propulsion, aircraft de-icing, and even water harvesting.

Initially, the startup focused on the wind turbine market. Controlling airflow and reducing drag could potentially increase electricity generation by 10% to 15%, according to Garcia.

Additionally, the plasma actuators can be adapted to generate heat, aiding in the de-icing of turbine blades.

“Ice accumulation poses a significant challenge in North America and other regions, resulting in a 20% energy loss for wind turbines,” he stated.

Shifting Focus to Chip Cooling

While YPlasma continues development on a wind turbine product, with a test scheduled at Sandia National Laboratories this summer, a successful project with the semiconductor manufacturer has prompted a greater emphasis on chip cooling.

The company is also closely examining the data center market. Efficient cooling represents a substantial operational expense in data centers, and improvements in this area could significantly enhance profitability.

“Currently, options range between fans and more complex liquid or immersive cooling systems, the latter of which are quite expensive,” Garcia noted. “There is a strong demand for innovative cooling solutions.”