New R&D lab to boost Daikin data centre push
6th December 2025
USA: Daikin Applied is to build a new 71,000ft2 (6,600m2) extension to its R&D test lab in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to support the wider development of data centre cooling solutions.
Groundbreaking has taken place on the new lab, which will include a modern office and nine new test cells, specifically to support the development of chillers and custom air handlers.
The investment is said to be part of Daikin’s broader strategy to deliver comprehensive data centre solutions, a strategy that includes further expansions and acquisitions.
In August, the company announced the purchase of DDC Solutions, a San-Diego-based developer of modular, ultra-high-density hybrid and in-room, rack-level solutions for white space cooling. Then, last month, it bought Chilldyne, a California-based manufacturer of negative pressure liquid cooling systems for high-performance and AI data centres.
In January, Daikin Applied Americas will significantly enhance production capacity for large-tonnage plants with the opening of a new modular solutions manufacturing facility. In addition, it is set to build a second custom air handler manufacturing plant to complement its 2023 acquisition of San Diego-based AHU manufacturer Alliance Air Products (AAP).
To further support the demands of data centres, Daikin Applied has launched a global data centre business unit, led by Greg Jeffers. Commenting on Daikin Applied’s approach to the market, the former Schneider Electric man said: “Our mission is to lead the data centre industry forward with scalable, reliable, high-performance cooling eco-systems that are easily deployable and act together to protect our customer’s valuable infrastructure.”
Related stories:
Daikin acquires direct-to-chip cooling company – 5 November 2025
USA: Daikin Applied Americas has acquired Chilldyne, a California-based manufacturer of negative pressure liquid cooling systems for high-performance and AI data centres. Read more…
Daikin Applied to acquire US data centre cooling firm – 5 August 2025
USA: Daikin Applied has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire DDC Solutions, a San-Diego-based developer of ultra-high-density cooling cabinets and management software for data centres. Read more…
Daikin Applied acquires US AHU manufacturer – 3 March 2023
USA: Daikin Applied has acquired Alliance Air Products, a San Diego-based custom air-handling equipment manufacturer. Read more…
