Purpose of Drift Eliminators in Cooling Towers Drift eliminators are essential components in cooling towers designed to minimize water loss, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their key functions
. Prevent Water Loss (“Drift”)
- What is Drift? Tiny water droplets carried away by the exhaust air stream.
- Function: Drift eliminators capture these droplets and return them to the cooling tower basin.
- Impact: Saves thousands of gallons of water annually, reducing makeup water demand.
2. Reduce Chemical Treatment Costs
- Problem: Drift carries away dissolved chemicals (biocides, corrosion inhibitors).
- Solution: Eliminators prevent chemical loss, maintaining treatment efficacy.
- Savings: Cuts chemical costs by 5–15%.
3. Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
- Prevents Pollution: Stops mist from settling on nearby structures, vegetation, or water bodies.
- Avoids Fines: Meets EPA and industry standards (e.g., CTI STD-140 limits drift to <0.001% of circulating water).
4. Protect Equipment & Surroundings
- Corrosion Prevention: Eliminators reduce moisture exposure on nearby steel structures.
Ice Formation Control: In cold climates, prevents dangerous ice buildup on walkways or
- roofs.
5. Improve Operational Efficiency
- Stable Water Balance: Consistent water levels optimize pump and chiller performance.
- Energy Savings: Reduced makeup water = less energy for reheating.
How Drift Eliminators Work
- Airflow Entry: Humid air passes through eliminator blades (typically PVC, PP, or FRP).
- Droplet Capture: Curved or zigzag blades force droplets to collide, coalesce, and drain back.
- Dry Air Exit: Only vapor escapes the tower.
Types of Drift Eliminators
| Type | Design | Efficiency | Best For |
| Blade-Type | Angled PVC/PP vanes | 99.9% | Most industrial towers |
| Mesh-Type | Wire/plastic screens | 98–99% | Small HVAC towers |
| Chevron | Wavy FRP panels | 99.5% | High-velocity towers |
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect quarterly for clogging or damage.
- Clean annually with low-pressure water.
- Replace every 5–10 years (or if drift becomes visible).