A wooden cooling tower is a type of heat rejection device used in industrial processes to remove excess heat by evaporating water. It is constructed primarily from wood, typically redwood, cedar, or treated pine, due to its natural resistance to water, decay, and corrosion.
Key Features of Wooden Cooling Towers:
- Material:
- Made from durable, rot-resistant wood (often treated for extra protection).
- Wood is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for water-cooling applications.
- Design:
- Cross flow or counter flow design for efficient heat transfer.
- Contains fill media (wooden slats or plastic) to maximize water-air contact.
- Equipped with drift eliminators to reduce water loss.
- Advantages:
- Corrosion-resistant (unlike metal towers).
- Cost-effective for large industrial applications.
- Long lifespan (if properly maintained).
- Eco-friendly (wood is biodegradable and sustainable).
- Applications:
- Used in power plants, refineries, chemical plants, and HVAC systems.
- Suitable for large-scale industrial cooling where water treatment is controlled.
- Maintenance Requirements:
- Regular inspections for wood decay, algae growth, or fungal attacks.
- Chemical treatment to prevent biological fouling.
- Replacement of damaged wood components over time.
Comparison with Other Cooling Towers:
| Feature | Wooden Cooling Tower | Metal (FRP/Steel) Cooling Tower | Concrete Cooling Tower |
| Material | Wood (redwood, cedar) | Fiberglass (FRP), Galvanized Steel | Reinforced Concrete |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years (with maintenance) | 15-25 years (FRP), 20-30 years (steel) | 30-50 years |
| Cost | Moderate (initial cost) | Moderate to High | High (but long-lasting) |
| Corrosion Resistance | High (against water) | FRP: High, Steel: Needs coating | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Regular wood treatment needed | Less maintenance than wood | Low maintenance |