| Cooling Tower Parts & Functions A cooling tower is a heat rejection device that removes waste heat from a water stream and releases it into the atmosphere. It is commonly used in industries, power plants, and HVAC systems. Below are the main parts of a cooling tower and their functions: 1. Cooling Tower Structure (Frame & Casing) Function: Provides structural support and encloses the internal components. Material: Typically made of FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic), steel, or concrete for durability and corrosion resistance. 2. Fill Media (Heat Transfer Surface) Function: Increases the surface area for air-water contact, enhancing heat exchange. Types: Splash Fill – Breaks water into droplets. Film Fill – Spreads water into thin films for better cooling. 3. Water Distribution System (Spray Nozzles & Pipes) Function: Evenly distributes hot water over the fill media. Types: Gravity Distribution (using basins & nozzles). Pressurized Spray System (for uniform water spread). 4. Drift Eliminators Function: Prevents water droplets from escaping with the exhaust air (reduces water loss). Material: Usually PVC or fiber-reinforced plastic. 5. Fan (Forced or Induced Draft) Function: Draws or pushes air through the tower to enhance evaporation cooling. Types: Axial Fans (common in induced draft towers). Centrifugal Fans (used in some forced draft systems). 6. Motor & Drive Assembly Function: Powers the fan to maintain proper airflow. May include gearboxes or variable frequency drives (VFDs) for speed control. 7. Cold Water Basin (Sump) Function: Collects cooled water before it is recirculated. Features: Includes a sump heater (in cold climates to prevent freezing) and a sump screen (to filter debris). 8. Louvers (Air Inlet) Function: Directs airflow into the tower while preventing water splash-out. Material: Typically, PVC, wood, or metal. 9. Makeup Water Line Function: Replenishes water lost due to evaporation, drift, and blowdown. 10. Blowdown (Bleed-off) System Function: Removes concentrated water (with dissolved solids) to prevent scaling and fouling. 11. Float Valve (Level Control) Function: Maintains the correct water level in the basin by controlling makeup water. 12. Vibration Switches & Safety Controls Function: Monitors fan/motor vibrations and shuts down the system in case of imbalance or failure. 13. Access Doors & Platforms Function: Allows maintenance and inspection of internal components. Types of Cooling Towers Based on Airflow: Natural Draft (Uses convection, no fan – very large structures). Mechanical Draft (Uses fans): Forced Draft (Fan at the air inlet). Induced Draft (Fan at the air outlet – most common). |
