Flexnode is a next-generation data center company delivering modular, AI-native infrastructure designed for high-density, high-performance computing. Their systems are liquid-cooled, rapidly deployable, and built to scale with evolving workloads. As Flexnode scales their technology, they require a design partner that can navigate the technical and commercial complexities of developing a flexible and robust product in an industry that is rapidly advancing.

Through Arup Ventures, our business for supporting the development, commercialization and scaling of early-stage companies, we supported the delivery of Flexnode’s first full-scale pilot and its technology and commercial roadmap, alongside industry introductions, fundraising guidance and further strategic input. Working closely with the client team and other partners, we are continuing to provide core MEP, Fire Safety, Controls and ITC support and coordination as their product develops, all of which is positioning Flexnode to deliver next-generation modular data centers with confidence and speed. 

Flexnode enables organizations to operate anywhere with precision, sustainability, and speed - transforming traditional data center models into agile, future-ready platforms. As our technology and processing needs rapidly evolve, flexible and efficient reference design options are becoming increasingly critical for commercial operators and users alike. 

A large field with windmills.

As Flexnode progresses toward future deployments, Arup and other key partners are engineering next-generation, prefabricated designs for high-density liquid-cooled modular data centers, optimizing delivery timelines via solutions that either integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure or serve as standalone builds for greenfield sites. © Flexnode

A white rectangular object.

For Flexnode’s GB200 reference design, the project team turned a complex, multi-system brief into a clear, deployable blueprint for modular data center delivery. © Flexnode

Supporting Flexnode’s reference design 

For Flexnode’s GB200 reference design, the project team turned a complex, multi-system brief into a clear, deployable blueprint for modular data center delivery. Our data center experts aligned mechanical liquid cooling and ventilation layouts with verified load profiles to right-size capacity, reduce energy waste, and simplify site integration. In parallel, we defined power distribution and equipment layouts by designing modular IT and mechanical power blocks to ensure a resilient electrical backbone that scales with compute demand. We paired this with code-led fire strategies, including battery room compliance, so safety is embedded from the outset. 

Equally critical, Arup designed the systems integration strategy that enables Flexnode and their clients to gain real-time insight and a single source of truth across assets. This includes a unified controls strategy that considers Building Management Systems (BMS), Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) and Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) systems with consistent points lists, naming conventions, and network topology. The Operational Technology (OT) network architecture, with robust fiber topology and cabinet layouts, enables reliable monitoring and control of all MEP systems, while our security design guidance streamlines component selection and integration. Together, these decisions de-risk first-of-a-kind delivery, shorten commissioning, and create a repeatable, scalable template for Flexnode’s next generation of modular data centers. 

Implementing efficient and flexible technology 

As Flexnode progresses towards future deployments, Arup and other key Flexnode partners are supporting the engineering of next generation designs that can be manufactured and prefabricated where relevant to minimize the delivery timelines of high-density liquid cooled modular data centers. This approach includes two deployments, one that can connect seamlessly to existing infrastructure and another approach that can be implemented on new, greenfield sites that require supporting infrastructure.  

Beyond physical design, sustainability and building performance have been embedded throughout the design process. Arup’s advisory services team is supporting efficient operations and long-term resilience. In addition, we developed a digital twin and data management strategy to streamline data driven processes for monitoring, configuration, and lifecycle coordination across deployments. With a focus on future production, we established a high-level Concept of Operations framework to assist Flexnode in establishing governance principles and SOP foundations whilst mapping key business functions for scalable growth.  

Arup Ventures partners with founders to scale early‑stage breakthrough companies. We operate on a sweat‑equity basis, contributing deep technical expertise, market reach and insight, and IP, all backed by Arup’s global network of over 19,000 experts, to de‑risk, accelerate, and grow impactful businesses shaping the future of the built environment. 

Arup has consistently set the bar for innovation as a leader in the AEC industry. Arup Ventures enables companies like us to benefit from the massive knowledge and experience that comes from their industry leadership to more effectively navigate a market value chain notorious for its complexity.

Andrew Lindsey

Flexnode CEO