Types of Remote Radiators
| Feature | Remote Dry Cooler | Remote Fluid Cooler (Closed-Circuit) | Cooling Tower (Open-Circuit) |
| Principle | Sensible Heat Transfer (Dry) | Evaporative (on a closed coil) | Direct Evaporative (Open) |
| Process Fluid | Water-Glycol (Closed Loop) | Water-Glycol (Closed Loop) | Raw Water (Open Loop) |
| Heat Rejection To | Ambient Dry-Bulb Temperature | Ambient Wet-Bulb Temperature | Ambient Wet-Bulb Temperature |
| Water Usage | None | Medium (Evaporation) | High (Evaporation & Blowdown) |
| Maintenance | Low (Clean Coils) | Medium (Water Treatment + Coils) | High (Aggressive Water Treatment) |
| Footprint | Largest | Medium | Smallest |
| Risk of Fluid Contamination | None | None | Possible (if HX fails) |
| Initial Cost | Medium | Medium-High | High (including HX & pumps) |