Cooling the Digital Footprint: JM Solutions Cool Data Centers

Supporting Energy Efficient Data Centers Through Whole-Building Design 

As artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing drive unprecedented growth in data center demand, operators are under increasing pressure to deliver additional capacity while managing energy use, resource constraints and sustainability commitments. In regions where power and water availability are limiting factors, improving efficiency across the entire facility has become essential. While much of the industry's focus is placed on server and cooling technologies, building systems such as roofing, insulation and filtration also play a critical role in supporting thermal performance, operational resilience and long-term sustainability objectives. To help address these challenges, Johns Manville (JM) offers solutions spanning commercial roofing, mechanical insulation and filtration products engineered to optimize data centers across the entire building ecosystem.  

The Roof as the First Line of Thermal Defense 

Reflective roofing systems, including bright white membranes, help reduce solar heat gain and lower cooling loads. When paired with JM’s polyiso insulation boards, these roofing assemblies enhance the thermal performance of the building envelope, reducing heat transfer into the facility. By minimizing unwanted heat gain, data center operators can reduce the energy required to maintain optimal operating conditions. Additionally, JM roofing systems are engineered to support the structural demands of rooftop mechanical equipment, including solar PV panels.  

High-Performance Pipe and Duct Insulation for Peak HVAC Efficiency  

HVAC systems are foundational to data center performance, helping maintain the precise environmental conditions required to support reliable operation of mission-critical IT equipment. Because cooling infrastructure represents a significant portion of overall facility energy consumption, optimizing the efficiency of chilled water and air distribution systems is essential to managing operating costs and sustainability objectives. Properly specified insulation helps maintain temperature throughout the HVAC network, minimize thermal losses, reduce condensation risk and support consistent cooling performance across the facility.  

• Chilled Water Piping: Insulation systems play an important role in maintaining chilled water temperatures and reducing energy losses throughout the distribution network. For these applications, JM offers solutions including Micro-Flex®, which can help streamline transportation and installation logistics, as well as Micro-Lok HP®, which incorporates approximately 40% recycled glass content. For applications requiring high-strength pipe supports, Trymer® polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation provides durable thermal performance. 
• Ductwork & Air Distribution: Effective duct insulation helps maintain supply air temperatures while controlling condensation and improving overall HVAC efficiency. JM solutions such as Microlite® duct wrap and Linacoustic RC® duct liner provide thermal and acoustic performance for large air distribution systems. Linacoustic RC® also features a protective coating designed to help resist dust accumulation and microbial growth. 

Advanced Engineered Filtration for Air Purity and Airflow  

High-density computing environments depend on continuous airflow to maintain optimal operating conditions. Airborne particulates can accumulate on sensitive electronics, reduce cooling effectiveness, and increase maintenance requirements, ultimately impacting system performance and reliability. Effective filtration plays a critical role in maintaining clean air throughout the facility while supporting efficient airflow across cooling infrastructure. JM’s engineered filtration solutions are designed to capture airborne contaminations while minimizing pressure drop. By helping maintain air quality without restricting airflow, these solutions support efficient operation of cooling systems, reduce energy demands associated with air movement and contribute to the long-term reliability of critical data center infrastructure.  

The Power of One Partner  

By combining advanced roofing, specialized mechanical insulation and high-efficiency filtration, Johns Manville provides data center developers with a complete building strategy that cuts energy use, helps prevent unexpected downtime and advances sustainability goals.