Leak detection and management system for rack cooling systems

An apparatus and system are provided for detecting coolant leaks from connections to rack-mounted devices and managing the leak by directing liquid away from sensitive electrical components. On each device, a pan is connected to liquid couplings found on the rear of the device. A sensor tape is attached to a vertical section of the rack, e.g., on the coolant supply lines or housing. The pan collects leakage from the couplings and directs the leakage to the sensor tape, which is connected to a control unit. Upon liquid contacting the sensor tape, the control unit signals the detection of a leak. To prevent false positives due to incidental leakage, e.g., mere drops leaked upon connection to the coolant system, the pan may include a texture in the pan surface that retains a small amount of fluid.