As AI drives rapid growth in data center capacity, the demand for reliable, efficient power solutions, like diesel generators, has never been greater. The International Energy Agency projects that global electricity consumption from data centers will reach about 945 TWh by 2030, with AI workloads as a major driver. Alongside this growth, emission control of diesel backup power presents technical challenges that require advanced catalyst engineering.
At CDTi, our focus is on the design and engineering of high-performance catalyst elements inside diesel and natural gas emission systems. These components form the heart of emission-control technologies in diesel and natural gas engines powering data centers that our customers rely on to build durable solutions tailored to demanding power applications. We don’t compete with the emissions system builders; we provide the catalyst expertise and technology that help them succeed.
Regulatory Requirements for Diesel Generators in Data Centers
Diesel generators powering AI data centers must not only deliver dependable energy but must do so while meeting strict emissions regulations, controlling pollutants such as NOx and particulate matter. The EPA notes that stationary diesel engines are common sources of primary and backup power for data centers and are subject to air emissions requirements.
Balancing performance and emissions starts with the right catalyst elements, optimized for the exact engine type, operating conditions, and space constraints.
Our engineering approach covers every critical aspect of catalyst performance:
- Substrate selection and architecture to ensure compatibility and durability
- Catalyst formulation and washcoat optimization to maximize pollutant conversion
- Precision coating applications for uniform catalyst loading and activity
CDTi’s integrated design process, grounded in extensive testing, helps system manufacturers develop catalyst elements that deliver superior emissions reduction without compromising power output or system longevity.
Tailored Catalyst Solutions for Diesel Generators in Data Centers
CDTi’s portfolio includes advanced catalyst elements specialized for stationary engine applications, central to data center backup power:
- Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC): Reducing carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Coatings: Capturing and oxidizing soot particles
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR): Reduces nitrogen oxides emissions
- Ammonia Slip Catalysts (ASC): Removes excess ammonia slip
We work closely with our customers, delivering custom-engineered catalyst components that fit within their system designs to optimize exhaust flow, minimize back pressure, and simplify maintenance requirements. This collaborative development ensures every catalyst element matches unique engine setups and operating conditions typical of AI data center power infrastructure.
Meeting AI Data Center Power Demands with Durable, Efficient Catalyst Elements
AI’s computing power increases inevitably translate into higher and more variable electrical loads at data centers, making backup diesel generators an indispensable part of power resiliency strategies. The catalysts we supply directly impact the long-term reliability and emissions compliance of those generators.
The CDTi Advantage
Our approach is application-specific. We offer catalyst elements for your emission reduction systems including diesel oxidation catalysts, diesel particulate filters, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst, and ammonia slip catalyst (ASC). With decades of catalyst design and production experience, CDTi collaborates closely with customers to develop custom-engineered catalysts tailored to their specific engine, installation, and operating conditions.
Connect with the technical experts at CDTi and ensure emissions compliance without compromising uptime and responsiveness in data center power.