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Open Circuit Cooling Towers

Open Circuit Cooling Tower

Overview of Open Circuit Cooling Towers

Open cooling towers are a proven and cost-effective method of cooling condenser water loops and industrial processes. In operation, the condenser water (or process water) flows directly over the heat transfer surface of the open cooling tower. As air is introduced into the tower, a fraction of this water is evaporated, cooling the remaining water. Open cooling towers provide evaporative cooling for many types of systems, and the specific application will largely determine which BAC cooling tower is best suited for a project. Open cooling towers discharge heat from water-cooled systems into the atmosphere. The hot process water is distributed over a fill pack (heat transfer media) to interface with air blown by a fan through the cooling tower. During this evaporative cooling, a small part of the water evaporates while cooling the remaining process water.

Process Of Open Circuit Cooling Towers:

  • The water that needs to be cooled will be directed to the upper part of the cooling tower.
  • The nozzles (A) distribute water over the tower packing (B).
  • Water will be spread in a thin and even film over the packing thanks to its shape. This will result in a very large contact surface (heat exchange surface).
  • The fan blows or extracts (depending on the type of fan) ambient air through the packing. This air will cool the water in 2 different ways. Part of the heat will be removed due to convection (contact between hot water and colder air), but the main cooling part will be because of evaporation.
  • The air, which is now saturated with humidity, will be exhausted through the upper part.
  • The cooled down water will be gathered in the basin (C) so it can be reused in the production process.
  • The drop eliminators above the nozzles make sure that the water drops don’t leave the cooling tower.

Advantages of Cooling Tower:

  • Optimal cooling, as proved by lab tests
  • Allowing low process temperatures
  • Open cooling towers have a small footprint
  • Low energy consumption
  • Reduced installed cost
  • Open cooling towers have a small footprint
  • CTI Certification across full range  

Images:

Open Circuit Cooling Towers
Open Circuit Cooling Towers