Fluid Coolers Overview - Notes
Definition: Fluid coolers (also called cooling towers) are heat exchangers where air and water interact to reduce water temperature for reuse.
Process:
Hot water from industrial processes or HVAC systems is pumped into the cooling tower.
Water enters at the top in a counterflow arrangement, meaning water and air move in opposite directions.
Water is sprayed through spray nozzles into the fill material (PVC, polypropylene, or older wood slats).
Fill Function: Slows water movement, allowing air to blow across. Induced draft cooling tower has fans pulling air across the fill material.
Evaporation:
As water passes through the fill, a small percentage evaporates (as little as 1%), absorbing heat from the remaining water.
Cooled water returns to the condenser.
Water can be cooled to within 7 degrees of the air’s wet bulb temperature. Humid air reduces efficiency, while dry air increases it.
Water Loss:
Water lost through evaporation is replenished via a fresh water inlet and float mechanism.
Chemical treatment prevents algae and other organisms.
Solids Accumulation:
Solids accumulate from water evaporation, leaving minerals behind.
Solids are removed through a blow-off pipe or manually to ensure efficient operation.
Induced Draft Counterflow:
Fans pull air, and air and water flow in opposite directions for maximum heat transfer.
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