Data centers are the backbone of our digital world. Every time we send a text message, run a Google search, stream a television show, use artificial intelligence or cloud computing, email colleagues, and post or scroll on social media platforms, vast amounts of data is routed through, processed by, and stored in these critical facilities.
Data centers consume significant amounts of electricity to operate 24/7, which means they generate a ton of heat. Traditionally, air cooling was used to prevent equipment from overheating, but this method burns through a tremendous amount of power. Consequently, an increasing number of facilities are shifting away from air cooling in favor of a more efficient solution—liquid cooling.
A single large data center can consume as much electricity as 50,000 homes. [1]
Cooling distribution units (CDUs) play a critical role in both hybrid and liquid cooling systems, circulating distilled water, glycol mixes, and refrigerants throughout a facility to manage the intense heat generated in processing data loads. When it comes to transporting these fluids to hard-to-reach spaces, one type of hose stands out for its durability and reliability.
Why Choose Metal Hose for Data Center Applications
CDUs and HVAC systems in data centers rely on metal hoses to prevent servers, networking equipment, and power conversion components from overheating. These robust conduits offer a reliable and corrosion-resistant solution.
With long lifespans, metal hose reduces the need for maintenance or replacements that could otherwise disrupt or jeopardize your operations. They play a vital role in several key data center applications, including:
- Refrigerant transfer lines and glycol loops: Across the facility, networks of pipes and flexible metal hoses transport liquid cooling agents directly to a thick forest of servers running around the clock. These components are essential to maintaining optimal temperatures and ensuring continuous, efficient operation.
- Cooling distribution units (CDUs): CDUs function as the homebase for cooling loops. Inside each unit is a network of metal hoses responsible for flushing out heated fluid collected from high-performance servers and recirculating cooling agents back through the system. This continuous exchange keeps servers operating at ideal temperatures.
- Armored conduit: Electrical wiring is often encased in flexible metal hose that provides a protective shield against moisture, harsh environmental conditions, and physical compression in tight or confined spaces.
Why Metal is a Better Product in Data Center Cooling Systems
Due to their low cost and ease of installation, data centers have experimented with rubber hoses. However, over time rubber hoses become brittle, crack and leak. Hose failures put data centers at risk of floods, equipment damage, and outages.
Through trial and error, it became clear that rubber hoses could not withstand conditions in data centers. Metal hoses emerged as a far more durable, reliable solution. Unlike rubber, metal hoses maintain ductility over time and resist cracking. When stored, handled, and installed properly, metal hoses can last for years, making them the ideal choice to meet the growing demands of modern data centers.
How Penflex Supports Data Center Cooling Systems
While metal hoses are a relatively recent addition to data centers, Penflex brings over a century of expertise to the table. We understand the critical features that make metal hoses perform—and excel—where it matters most:
Increased flexibility: Penflex’s metal hoses are flexible, simplifying installation in even the most confined or hard-to-reach spaces. Each data center cooling hose can be easily adjusted to fit various heights and orientations without compromising its performance or durability.
Clean components: Penflex’s Clean ID hose is manufactured without any internal tooling lubricants, or fluid, resulting in a final product that contains no traces of grease, moisture, oils, or particulate that’s left behind through standard manufacturing processes. This eliminates the need for post-production cleaning and subsequent testing.
Size range: From ¼” to 24”, Penflex’s flexible metal hoses come in a range of sizes that can be seamlessly integrated into any configuration or space.
Corrosion resistance: All hoses are prone to deterioration if they’re continuously exposed to harsh substances and intense heat or pressures, but our austenitic stainless steel hoses have superior corrosion resistance. Their compatibility with glycol-based solutions and specialized refrigerants significantly extends lifespan.
Quality welds: High-quality welds are essential to hose integrity and long-term performance, especially in data centers. At Penflex, we achieve this through a proven process that includes TIG welding and argon purging, which together produce clean, strong welds without compromising corrosion resistance. Our team includes ASME Section IX–certified welders, on-site certified welding instructors, and non-destructive examination (NDE) specialists, ensuring every assembly is tested and leak-tight before it leaves our facility.
Recommended Products for Data Center Cooling Applications
Clean ID
Removing the need for post-production cleaning processes, Clean ID represents the latest innovations in hose forming technology.
P5 Series
Large diameter hose options for commercial HVAC applications.
P3 Series
Lightweight, flexible annular hose ideal for tight configurations.
Beyond the Product: The Penflex Partnership
At Penflex, we see every order as an opportunity to continue building our relationship with a current customer–or the beginning of a partnership with a new customer. Our customers count on us not only for a quality product, but also for expertise, responsive service, and resources to help them get the most out of their investment.
Dedicated Engineering Support
Our sales engineers work closely with you from project prototype through delivery, helping define requirements for new products and replacements. A dedicated account manager means you have a single point of contact who understands your business and responds quickly with thoughtful solutions.
Practical Technical Resources
From online calculators and engineering bulletins to in-person and virtual training, we give your team the tools to make informed decisions and the confidence to install, operate, and maintain hoses for maximum longevity.
Full Quality Documentation
On request, we provide complete record packs—including material test reports, leak and pressure test results, and cleaning procedure documentation—so you can meet compliance requirements and maintain full traceability.
Our commitment to service is reflected in our 99% customer retention rate and an average customer relationship of 20 years. We aim to make every interaction count, combining technical know-how with the kind of service that turns first-time buyers into long-time partners.
Footnotes
[1] MIT Energy Initiative, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The multi-faceted challenge of powering AI. Retrieved November 17, 2025 from https://energy.mit.edu/news/the-multi-faceted-challenge-of-powering-ai/.