What is Cooling Tower

 

 

A cooling tower is a heat rejection device that extracts waste heat from water and releases it into the atmosphere, effectively cooling the water for reuse or disposal. The primary function of is to cool water through evaporation in cooling towers, which occurs when water is exposed to air. Cooling towers are crucial in industries where large amounts of heat need to be dissipated, such as power generation, chemical processing, and HVAC systems.

 

Benefits of Cooling Tower
 

Efficient system working: Cooling tower used with water treatment system removes all the hazardous chemicals from water and makes it decontaminated. This keeps the cooling tower parts clean and corrosion-free for a longer time, preparing the system to work at more optimum levels.

 

Less maintenance required: Due to clean and corrosion-free cooling tower parts, the frequency of the requirement of maintaining a cooling tower is reduced, and the maintenance cost is also reduced.

 

Life of the system extends: The water treatment system used in the cooling tower doesn’t allow the chemicals to deposit, which keeps the system corrosion-free and extends the life of the whole system.

 

Less energy consumption: With water treatment plants in cooling towers, the water is re-circulated again and again to ensure that the system is clean enough to work at its full capacity and less energy is used to achieve more output.

 

Saves water: Unfiltered water has a high chemical deposit content that has to be flushed through the rushing water to prevent corrosion in the system. Using an effective filtration system can reduce the amount of blowdown required in the system and save a huge amount of water in the process.

 

  • Round Cooling Tower
    Three smooth exterior surface will not collect dirt and grime like towers made from male-type molds
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  • Square Cross-flow Cooling Tower
    High efficiency motor variable frequency motors are energy-saving options, for noise-required occasions, we can customize more solutions. the carefully selected recyclable materials respond to the national call and become more practical
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  • Counterflow Closed Cooling Tower
    During the continuous operation of the spray water, the industrial fluid flows and circulates in the heat exchanger coil of the closed cooling tower and spray water contacts the heat exchanger coil to form a water film
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How Does a Cooling Tower Work?

Cooling tower works on the principle of evaporative cooling. Hot water from industrial processes enters the tower and is distributed evenly over a fill material, which is typically composed of thin sheets of plastic or wood. As the water flows down the fill, it is exposed to a continuous flow of air. This exposure causes a small portion of the water to evaporate, removing heat from the remaining water. The cooled water then collects at the bottom of the tower, ready to be recirculated back into the industrial process.

 

The evaporation process is the key to the cooling tower’s effectiveness. As water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the surrounding water, lowering its temperature. The rate of evaporation cooling tower depends on factors such as the surface area of the water exposed to air, the temperature difference between the water and the air, and the humidity of the air. Cooling tower designers optimize these factors to maximize the tower’s cooling efficiency.

 

Types of Cooling Tower
 

Natural Draft Cooling Tower
Are usually used for large power plants and industries with infinite cooling water flow. The tower operates by removing waste heat by way of rising hot air that is then released into the atmosphere. These towers are tall and have a hyperbolic shape to induce proper airflow.

 

Mechanical Draft Cooling Tower
These towers have air forced through the structure by a fan that circulates air through the tower. Common fans used in these towers include propeller fans and centrifugal fans. While Mechanical draft towers are more effective than natural draft towers, they consume more power and cost more to operate as a result.

 

Crossflow Cooling Tower
Have a design that allows the air to flow horizontally through the fill and the tower’s structure into an open plenum area. Hot water flows downward from distribution basins. However, fans and motor drive require weather-proofing against moisture which can lead to freezing making it less efficient.

 

Counterflow Cooling Tower
Have a design where the air moves upwards and the counter-current, with hot water, falls downward to cool the air. This allows for maximum performance out of each plan area and helps minimize pump head requirements. Also, a counterflow cooling tower system is less likely to ice up in cold weather conditions and can save energy in the long run. All Delta Cooling Towers are counterflow and all include these advantages.

 

Induced Draft Cooling Tower
Are typically mounted with a fan at the top of the cooling tower, which allows hot air out and pulls air throughout. The high exiting air velocities reduce the chance of re-circulation. To avoid the entrapment of water droplets in the leaving stream air, drift eliminators are used. Induced draft towers are more efficient as they use 30% to up to 75% less energy compared to forced draft designs.

 

Forced Draft Cooling Tower
This cooling tower system is similar to induced draft, but the basic difference is that the air-moving fan is placed at the base of the cooling tower, which allows the air to blow through from the bottom. Their use is limited due to water distribution challenges, high horsepower fans, and the possibility of re-circulation.

 

Counterflow Closed Cooling Tower

 

What Materials are Cooling Towers Made of?

Cooling towers are typically made from materials like galvanized steel, stainless steel, fibreglass, or plastic. The structural frame of a cooling tower is typically made of galvanized steel, but stainless steel is also an option. Fiberglass reinforced polyester casing panels, steel, or stainless casing panels for extra corrosion resistance are all options. Louvers are typically fiberglass but are available in G-235 hot-dip galvanized steel, thermosetting hybrid polymer, and stainless steel. Metal cooling towers can help keep large HVAC systems running efficiently by acting as a heat exchanger that used water to cool the hot air.

 

What are the Applications of Cooling Towers?

 

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
HVAC is used for comfort cooling of residential and commercial areas. Heat generated from people, equipment (computers, servers, etc.), lighting, solar radiation, and outdoor ambient air is absorbed by the cooling system and rejected to the cooling tower.

 

Refrigeration
This application is used for cold storage in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and air and gas generation. It functions similarly to an HVAC system, where a refrigeration unit absorbs heat from a closed space and transfers that heat to the cooling tower for rejection.

 

Power Generation Plants
Power generation plants utilize steam as the working fluid. To generate power, water is heated into steam using coal, natural gas, or nuclear radiation, and this heat is converted into mechanical energy. However, not all of this heat can be converted into energy and must be removed to complete the steam cycle. Cooling towers play a crucial role in this process by removing the excess heat.

 

Industrial Plant (Oil and Gas, Petrochemicals, etc.)
This is similar to a power plant. Condensers, heat exchangers, and cooling jackets all absorb heat from processes. This heat is then carried by water to be rejected through the cooling tower.

 

 

What is the Water Outlet Temperature in the Cooling Tower?

Cold water coming out of a cooling tower always has a temperature higher than the temperature of the air in that environment. Air temperature or so-called "bubble temperature" is a determining factor in cold water temperature parameter. For different cities, the temperature of bubble water or wet bulb varies from 15 to 35 degrees. For environments with humidity above 70%, the temperature of the wet bulb is higher and the cooling tower will be very limited in cooling the water in the summer.

 

Of course, the declared bubble temperature will be examined only in the summer season and in the worst climatic conditions. Another thing to mention is that a cooling tower will not be able to reduce the water exactly to the wet ambient temperature. The cold water cooled in this equipment is always 3 to 5 degrees higher than the ambient temperature, and the temperature drop created in all types of cooling towers is measured by the stated law.

Square Cross-flow Cooling Tower

 

Essential Components of Cooling Tower
 

Fans: A cooling tower may contain large fans that circulate significant volumes of air. Though not all cooling towers require fans, many models use them to create and direct airflow through the tower.

 

Fill: Fill, also called wet deck or surface, typically consists of textured polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that is integral to the cooling tower function. It usually features ridges with open spaces for the air and water to travel through.

 

Spray nozzles: Spray nozzles in the cooling tower can also be useful in increasing the surface area of the water. In some types of cooling towers like counterflow towers, spray nozzles disperse small droplets of water into the air.

 

Distribution basin: The distribution basin, or hot water basin, is often used in crossflow cooling towers. A distribution basin takes the place of the spray nozzles by distributing the hot water evenly throughout the tower.

 

Collection basin: The collection basin, or cold water basin, sits at the bottom of the tower to collect the water after it has cooled. In field-built models, these basins are often built of concrete to support the tremendous weight of the water coming down the tower.

 

Inlets and outlets: Inlets and outlets in the cooling tower take in cool air from the environment and release the warm air after it has absorbed the water’s heat.

 

Drift eliminators: Drift, or water loss, in a cooling tower is undesirable, but it sometimes occurs when droplets of water escape into the outlet and flow out with the exiting air. Drift eliminators help keep the water secure in the tower. They point the airflow in multiple directions to prevent it from whisking water away.

 

Factors to Consider When Selecting Cooling Tower

 

Determine Your Cooling Needs

The first step in selecting a cooling tower is to determine your cooling needs. This involves understanding the heat load that your operations generate, the ambient temperature, as well as the required temperature of the cooled water. These factors will dictate the size and type of the cooling tower needed.

Type of Cooling Tower

Evaporative towers provide cooling via the evaporation of water, which provides efficient cooling but consumes more water. Dry cooling towers, on the other hand, do not require water for cooling but may be less efficient. Your choice will depend on the availability of water, environmental considerations, and operational requirements.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency should be another critical consideration. Look for cooling towers that have energy-saving features, such as variable-speed fans, high-efficiency fill materials, or heat exchangers. Although these features might increase the upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run through reduced energy costs.

Material of Construction

Cooling towers are typically made from materials like galvanized steel, stainless steel, fibreglass, or plastic. The choice of material will depend on the environmental conditions, the type of water used, and budgetary constraints. For instance, stainless steel towers are more expensive but can withstand harsh conditions and have a longer lifespan.

Consider the Installation and Operating Costs

The cost of a cooling tower includes not only the initial purchase price but also the costs of installation, operation, and maintenance. Higher-efficiency towers may have a higher upfront cost but can save money in the long run through reduced energy use. Additionally, consider the longevity and durability of the tower, as a longer lifespan can offset higher initial costs.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Regular maintenance of cooling towers is crucial for their optimal operation. Choose towers that are easy to maintain, with accessible parts and a design that facilitates cleaning and inspection. In terms of lifespan, towers with durable materials and robust construction are likely to last longer.

Review the Tower's Water Treatment System

A proper water treatment system is vital for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your cooling tower. Look for towers with systems that effectively prevent scale, corrosion, and biological growth. Additionally, consider the ease and cost of maintaining the water treatment system.

 

Key Steps for Effective Cooling Tower Cleaning
Round Cooling Tower
Counterflow Closed Cooling Tower
Horizontal Air Handler Unit
Square Cross-flow Cooling Tower

Drain the cooling tower: Turn off power to the cooling tower and drain the water from the system. Close all water supply valves and isolate the tower from the rest of the HVAC system.

 

Remove any debris: Clear any visible debris from the tower basin and sump. Use brushes or power washers to remove dirt, leaves, and other loose debris.

 

Clean the fill media: Inspect the fill media and remove any large accumulations of debris or scale. Use high-pressure hoses or power washers to clean the fill media thoroughly. Be sure to pay attention to hard-to-reach areas and corners.

 

Clean the basin and distribution system: Scrub the basin walls and floor with brushes and a mild cleaning solution. Check and clean the water distribution system, including nozzles and spray heads. Remove any scale, algae, or sediment buildup using appropriate cleaning agents or biocides.

 

Clean drift eliminator: Inspect the drift eliminators for blockages or dirt buildup. Use brushes or high-pressure water to clean the drift eliminators and ensure unobstructed airflow.

 

Disinfect the system: Apply a suitable biocide or cleaning agent to disinfect the cooling tower and control microbial growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution and application.

 

Flush and rinse the system: Flush the entire cooling tower with clean water to remove loosened debris and cleaning agents. Use high-pressure hoses to thoroughly rinse all components, including the fill media, basin, and distribution system.

 

Refill and restart the system: Refill the cooling tower with clean, treated water according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Restart the system, ensuring all valves and controls are functioning correctly. Monitor the tower’s performance to ensure proper operation.

 

 

FAQ

 

Q: Why cooling tower cleaning matters?

A: By prioritizing cleaning, facility managers can mitigate the risks of bacterial contamination, corrosion, and system malfunctions, ensuring a clean and healthy environment. Effective tower cleaning removes contaminants, promotes proper airflow, optimizes heat exchange, and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs and downtime.

Q: What Are The Benefits Of A Cooling Tower Over Air Cooling?

A: Cooling towers have a significant advantage over air cooling systems due to their higher efficiency. Cooling with water is 3,200 times more efficient than cooling with air. This can be attributed to water’s higher heat capacity and ability to absorb and dissipate heat more effectively than air.

Q: What Should Be The Difference Between Supply & Return Temperatures?

A: The cooling range is the temperature difference between the hot water entering the cooling tower (supply temperature) and the cooled water leaving the cooling tower (return temperature). This difference represents the heat the cooling tower removes from the process or system.

Q: How Do You Know A Cooling Tower Is Sized Correctly & Can Handle The Load?

A: Several factors need to be considered to determine if a cooling tower is the correct size and can handle the required load. These include the cooling range, flow rate, and wet bulb temperature. The flow rate is the amount of water circulating through the system. The wet bulb temperature is the lowest temperature achievable through evaporative cooling.

Q: What Are The Most Important Maintenance Tasks For My Cooling Tower?

A: Regularly inspect and clean the tower’s filters, as they help keep debris and contaminants out of the system. Clogged filters can reduce the tower’s efficiency and increase the risk of corrosion and scaling.

Q: How Does A Cooling Tower Help Me Save On Water & Energy?

A: Cooling towers can contribute to significant water and energy savings by utilizing the evaporative cooling process. The remaining water cools by evaporating a small portion of the circulating water, reducing the need for mechanical cooling and lowering energy consumption. Additionally, cooling towers can recover waste heat from industrial processes or HVAC systems, improving energy efficiency.

Q: How does a cooling tower cool water?

A: As the water flows through the cooling tower, it is exposed to air, which is being pulled through the tower by the electric motor-driven fan. When the water and air meet, a small amount of water is evaporated, creating a cooling action.

Q: What is the work of a cooling tower?

A: A cooling tower is a heat removal device that uses water to transfer process waste heat into the atmosphere. Likewise, an industrial cooling tower operates on the principle of removing heat from water by evaporating a small portion of water that is recirculated through the unit.

Q: What is the leaving water temperature for a cooling tower?

A: A nominal cooling tower ton is defined as the capability to cool 3 GPM (0.19 lps) of water from a 95ºF (35.0ºC) entering water temperature to an 85ºF (29.4ºC) leaving water temperature at a 78ºF (25.6ºC) entering wet-bulb temperature.

Q: What is the life expectancy of a cooling tower?

A: The life expectancy of industrial cooling towers is typically 15-25 years. However, taking these simple steps can extend the life of your cooling towers or cooling system asset by further 10-15 years. Unexpected cooling tower breakdowns can be avoided through a systematic maintenance routine.

Q: How often should you change the fill in a cooling tower?

A: Typically, heat transfer media (otherwise known as fill) will need to be replaced once or twice during the life of a cooling tower. The longevity of fill, or heat transfer media, is predominantly a function of water and air quality, as well as proper operation.

Q: How many GPM per ton for cooling tower?

A: For anyone familiar with chiller sizing, 2.4 GPM/ton will give you a 10F delta-T across the evaporator. For cooling tower sizing, the rule of thumb is 3.0 GPM/ton for a 10F delta-T across the tower. You may also be aware that although a cooling ton is 12,000 BTUH, a heat rejection ton is 15,000 BTUH.

Q: What is the NFPA code for cooling tower?

A: NFPA 214 helps experts determine the type and amount of fire protection needed by taking into account the following factors: Continuity of operation. Size and construction of tower. Type of tower.

Q: What is the main problem in the cooling tower?

A: As your cooling tower runs day after day, dirt and other small particles will slowly build up within the tower. Essentially, little bits of whatever is in the water will get trapped inside the tower with each run through. These particles can clog the tower packing, reducing its ability to cool the recirculation water.

Q: What should the water level be in a cooling tower?

A: Typical towers usually have about 4 to 6 inches of water depth in the hot deck. If the fan on the tower is running and you have low flow, then the problem of over-concentration of dissolved solids is going to be more severe.

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