September 2026

ORNL Report

Challenges for Megawatt-Scale Artificial Intelligence Rack Infrastructure

By:
Nawaz, Kashif ; Mohammad, Mostak ; Brewer, Christian B; Ozpineci, Burak ; Chowdhury, Md S; Onar, Omer C; Rogers II, James H; King Jr, Thomas J
Publication Date:
September 10, 2026

Abstract

As artificial intelligence (AI) computing densities continue to increase, industry is pursuing megawatt-scale rack architectures that require tightly coordinated advances in electrical power delivery, thermal management, operations, and infrastructure integration. This document summarizes the primary technical challenges for achieving this target.