Bringing next-gen direct-drive motor tech to data centre cooling

TFM motors generate high torque at low speeds, ideal for large cooling fans, pumps and heat rejection towers that keep today’s high-density data centres running. The TFM motor will be commercialised under the ABB brand.

“As AI reshapes data center design, operators are looking for cooling solutions that deliver more with less: less energy, less complexity and less downtime,” said Justin McMahon, EVP, global business line, NEMA Motors Division, ABB. “Our expanded partnership with ETM brings a differentiated motor technology that addresses exactly these needs.”

“Our partnership with ABB is the right path to bringing Transverse Flux Motor to the data center market at scale,” said Mark Sheahan, CEO of Graco. “ABB’s global reach and deep expertise in electrification make it an ideal partner to commercialize this technology in applications where reliability and efficiency matter most.”

Global data centre electricity demand grew 17% in 2025, with AI-focused facilities growing at 50%¹, driving unprecedented demand for computing capacity and advanced infrastructure. As these facilities scale, cooling has become mission critical, operators need solutions that are more efficient, easier to maintain, quieter and built for continuous operation. 

TFM's direct-drive architecture offers a compelling option for large-scale cooling applications, reducing mechanical complexity and conversion losses, minimizing sound generated, lowering maintenance requirements and lifetime cost of ownership. Combined with ABB’s variable speed drives and broad motor portfolio, data center operators now have access to a wider range of high-performance cooling solutions tailored to their specific infrastructure requirements.

The ETM partnership complements ABB’s established portfolio of high-efficiency motors, ultra-low harmonic variable speed drives and liquid cooling expertise. As data center heat loads intensify, ABB is scaling cooling solutions that meet mission critical performance demands.

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