As liquid cooling becomes the go-to solution for AI server deployments, Taiwan's Walrus Pump Co. is developing compact, brushless DC water pumps through a partnership with a leading Japanese motor maker. The initiative targets surging demand for energy-efficient and space-saving cooling systems in high-density data centers worldwide.
AI performance hinges on server density, making space optimization in data centers a critical concern. Liquid cooling outperforms traditional air-based systems while enabling sleeker form factors, replacing 6U server chassis with 1U units. This transition allows more GPUs per rack, driving higher compute throughput, and reflects Nvidia's broader push for liquid-cooled server infrastructure.
New opportunities in the AI server supply chain
Traditionally focused on residential water pumps, Walrus Pump is now moving aggressively into industrial markets, particularly AI server cooling. After launching limited shipments of liquid-compatible pumps in 2024 via partnerships with leading Taiwanese thermal firms, the company is targeting expanded production in 2025.
CFO Chang Teng-Hsi said the rise of AI infrastructure is opening a new growth frontier for the pump sector. Walrus Pump reported NT$1.612 billion (US$53.7 million) in 2024 revenue, up 14.8% year-over-year. Residential pumps made up 70–75% of sales, industrial pumps 20–25%, components 5%, and AI server-targeted pumps around 1%. That last category is projected to grow to 3% of total revenue in 2025.
To meet diverse cooling needs, Walrus Pump offers customized solutions for both in-row and in-rack CDUs. While global brands tend to sell standard models, Walrus tailors its pumps to fit varying server designs—an edge in a market where liquid cooling architectures remain highly fragmented.
Product innovation and global expansion
In response to customer demand, Walrus is shifting from AC to DC pump models for AI server cooling. The new pumps feature compact, brushless, non-magnetic DC motors co-developed with a Japanese motor manufacturer and are set for release by the end of 2025.
Chang added that customers are also demanding higher flow rates. Walrus currently supplies 50T pumps—pushing 50 tons of water per hour—but is working on a 70T model, with prototypes due in 2025 and mass production planned for 2026.
Making its debut at Computex 2025, Walrus Pump introduced several new product lines. The TPMS series features ultra-thin, multi-stage centrifugal pumps with intelligent controls that adjust flow and speed based on IT heat loads. The CMP series offers shaftless, variable-speed pumps compatible with various coolants, designed to minimize leaks and lower maintenance. Both lines align with ESG priorities—namely, energy savings, smart control, and compact, modular cooling.
Walrus expects growth to continue in 2025. While residential pump demand remains steady, the company has secured new industrial clients in the US and is expanding into Japan and Germany. Its AI-focused smart pumps are emerging as a critical driver for long-term expansion in the data center market.
Article edited by Jerry Chen
