PowerGain™: Designed for the Data Center Density Dilemma
AI is driving unprecedented demand for data processing and electrical power in data centers. In just one year, the average rack power density increased from 16 kW to 27 kW. As power requirements continue to rise, the infrastructure supporting these growing loads must keep pace. For data center operators, the challenge is delivering more power within limited physical space while maintaining reliability, safety, and flexibility for future expansion.
The PowerGain™ family of high-amperage connectors from Hubbell Wiring Device-Kellems is designed to address these challenges. With space-saving configurations, secure electrical connections, and ratings up to 200 amps, PowerGain™ helps simplify data center power distribution while supporting increasing power requirements and future upgrades.
High-Amperage Power in Less Space
As data centers accommodate greater computing capacity and higher rack power densities, conventional connectors and large power cables can create space constraints around power distribution units (PDUs) and densely packed equipment.
The PowerGain™ product family includes flat plugs, connectors, and panel-mount receptacles in 125A and 175A configurations, as well as single-pole cord connectors and panel-mount devices rated up to 200A. These configurations are designed to accommodate higher power demands with a smaller footprint.
Fewer Connections, Simpler Installation
High-density data center power distribution often involves large conductors, limited working space, and complex cable routing. PowerGain’s modular, detachable connections can help reduce the number of cables, connection points, and wire terminations required in applicable power distribution designs.
PowerGain™ multi-conductor plugs also accept individual conductors, helping installers address cable bend-radius challenges associated with large multi-conductor cables and limited termination space around PDUs.
Together, these features can reduce potential points of failure, simplify maintenance, and lower installation labor and infrastructure costs associated with high-amperage power distribution.
Secure Connections for Critical Power Applications
Investing in reliable electrical connections can reduce your potential for connection-related risks such as unexpected power disruptions. PowerGain™ devices are UL-listed and incorporate the following features designed to support secure connections and dependable high-amperage power delivery:
- One-piece copper alloy contacts provide high-conductivity electrical connections.
- Oversized, keyed grounding contacts help prevent incorrect mating in multi-conductor devices.
- Replaceable latching modules help deter unintended disconnections in applicable devices.
- Keyed phase contacts and 180-degree rotational locking detents support secure connections in single-pole devices.
- Double-set-screw contacts and high-performance cord strain relief strengthen electrical and mechanical connections in applicable single-pole devices.
- Color-coded circuit ID labels help identify electrical connections.
Questions or Requests
McNaughton-McKay works alongside customers and manufacturer partners to identify electrical solutions suited to their infrastructure requirements. If you are designing or upgrading a data center to accommodate higher power demands, contact your McNaughton-McKay account manager or visit your local branch to learn more about PowerGain™ high-amperage connection solutions for your application.