| Comparison of Forced Draft vs Induced Draft Vs Hybrid Closed Circuit Cooling Tower Feature Forced Draft (V-Flow) Induced Draft (Counterflow) Hybrid (Dry/Wet) Air Flow Fan pushes air horizontally in/vertically out. Fan pulls air vertically up through the unit. Typically induced draft. Footprint Compact. Larger footprint for same capacity. Larger due to dry coil section. Maintenance Fans/motors at ground level. Fan/motor at top in exhaust stream. More complex, two systems. Efficiency Very Good. Excellent (optimal air/water contact). Excellent, adapts to conditions. Water Use Standard evaporative. Standard evaporative. Greatly reduced (used only when needed). Plume Visible plume. Visible plume. Minimal to no plume in dry mode. Climate All, but requires freeze protection. All, but requires freeze protection. Ideal for variable/dry climates. Cost Moderate. Moderate. Higher initial cost. |
