
Introducing Shell DLC Fluid S3, our latest evolution in data centre cooling
In the ever-evolving landscape of data centres, efficiency and density are paramount. we are proud to introduce our latest data centre cooling solution: propylene glycol-based direct liquid cooling (DLC) fluids.
These fluids complement our existing immersion cooling fluid portfolio, offering excellent heat transfer performance and building on our experience in the data centre liquid cooling market.
The challenge: Higher energy consumption and lower server density
Traditional air cooling is struggling to keep up with the increasing heat generated by high-performance computing and artificial intelligence (AI). Continuing with air cooling can result in poor operational efficiency, high energy consumption and low server density.

Our solution: Shell DLC Fluids
Direct liquid cooling fluids are engineered to meet these challenges head-on. By directly cooling the heat-generating components, the advanced fluid improves power usage effectiveness (PUE) by up to 27%,1 reducing the need for air-conditioning systems. It also helps to protect the manufacturer’s warranty as there is no direct contact with the microprocessor.
Shell DLC Fluid S3 benefits:
Long-term corrosion protection
Long-term corrosion protection for all DLC cooling systems, including aluminium, brass, cast iron, steel, solder and copper. Specially formulated to provide superior protection for aluminium and aluminium alloys.
Compatible with a wide range of materials
Including metals and metal alloys, elastomers, plastics and other wetted materials as per OCP guidelines. Its 2-ethylhexyl acrylate-, borate- and silicate-free formulation provides improved metal and rubber compatibilities over competitive formulations.2
Extended fluid life
Expected life of 6+ years,3 better than competitive conventional inorganic acid technology (IAT) based fluids.4
Meets OCP specifications
Complies with all requirements of Open Compute Project’s (OCP) PG25 coolant specifications.
Excellent heat transfer performance
Particularly for high-surface-area copper-based heat sinks.
Easy leak detection
Dyed fluorescent green to help identify in-service leakage.
Freeze protection
Down to sub-zero temperatures (−10°C/14°F). Used in servers and electronic components to provide freeze protection and help prevent corrosion to ensure long hardware life.

Shell DLC Fluid S3 Brochure
With the addition of Shell DLC Fluid S3 to our portfolio, we continue to commit to innovation in advanced data centre cooling solutions. Our commitment to efficiency and performance ensures that our customers can meet the demands of tomorrow’s data-driven world.
Disclaimers
1. Compared to the PUE of air-cooling
2. Based on tests performed with competitor fluids in US market in an electrochemistry test.
3. Based on performance of the product with similar chemistry in more stringent (higher temperature and pressure) automotive applications.
4. Based on laboratory tests performed with typical OAT coolant versus IAT coolant.