Steve Walton’s 3C Merges with Datalec to Form Data Centre Platform
The new entity, 3C Datalec, integrates liquid cooling expertise with precision engineering for global infrastructure.
1Strategic Merger Announcement
On October 14, liquid cooling startup 3C announced a merger with UK-based Datalec Precision Installations. The resulting entity, operating as 3C Datalec, aims to provide a full-service platform for data centre infrastructure. This move combines 3C’s specialized cooling technology with Datalec’s established engineering capabilities to manage complex facility design and operations.
2Leadership and Vision
Steve Walton, a former executive at CoolIT Systems, will serve as the CEO of the new 3C Datalec entity. Walton emphasizes that liquid cooling is now an essential requirement rather than an optional feature. His primary goal is to integrate cooling, power, construction, and operational systems into one unified, efficient infrastructure solution.
3Historical Industry Context
Walton previously led Calgary-based CoolIT Systems, which was acquired by Ecolab for 4.75 billion USD in March. His tenure there established him as a key figure in the data centre cooling sector. Following his departure in 2024, he founded 3C to focus specifically on transitioning data centres toward closed-loop, liquid cooling systems.
4Financial and Operational Scale
The new company is backed by venture capital firms including Longbow Capital, S2G Investments, Apogem Capital, and QIC. 3C Datalec currently reports active projects across 16 different countries. The firm is forecasting annual revenues reaching 400 million USD, reflecting the massive scale of their integrated service offerings within the global data centre market.
5Aggressive Expansion Plans
Over the next 12 months, 3C Datalec intends to hire 200 additional engineers to support its growth. The company is preparing to open new facilities in Calgary, Austin, and Warsaw. These locations are strategically chosen to meet the rising global demand for high-performance compute infrastructure and advanced thermal management system deployments.
6Technological Value Proposition
The merger addresses the critical shift from traditional air cooling to liquid cooling systems. By positioning itself as a one-stop shop, 3C Datalec captures the entire value chain of data centre construction. This integration allows the company to offer end-to-end services that handle both the physical build and the complex cooling requirements.
7Market Demand Drivers
The demand for compute capacity continues to rise without signs of slowing down, necessitating more efficient infrastructure. 3C Datalec aims to capitalize on this boom by providing comprehensive solutions that simplify the deployment process for operators. Financial terms of the merger between 3C and Datalec were not disclosed in the official announcement.
8Future Industry Outlook
As data centres face increasing pressure to optimize power and cooling, the 3C Datalec model represents a logical consolidation of services. By merging engineering with specialized thermal technology, the company is well-positioned to lead in the infrastructure sector. Their ability to execute projects globally will be a key indicator of future success.
Original article: BetaKit — Steve Walton’s 3C Merges with Datalec to Form Data Centre Platform