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NCT 17

Cooling Tower Common System Types

TypeTypical Size RangeTypical Applications
Natural Draft (Hyperbolic)500 – 10,000+ MW (heat rejection)Large power plants
Induced Draft, Cross flow (FRP)100 – 1,000 tonsCommercial HVAC, light industry
Induced Draft, Counter flow (FRP)50 – 500 tonsData centers, hospitals, precision cooling
Field-Erected Induced Draft1,000 – 20,000+ tonsRefineries, steel mills, chemical plants
Dry Cooling Tower100 – 5,000+ tonsWater-scarce power plants, desert regions
Closed-Circuit Cooler10 – 2,000 tonsProcess fluid cooling, geothermal, solar plants

The choice depends on a balance of heat load, water availability, climate, space, environmental regulations, and capital/operating costs. Wet mechanical draft towers are the most common globally due to their superior efficiency and lower cost where water is available.