Cooling Tower Fundamentals 2nd ed (SPX Cooling Technologies, 2006).pdf

Although the world’s total fresh water supply is abundant,
some areas have water usage demands that are heavily out of
balance with natural replenishment. Conservation and efficient
reuse of this precious and versatile resource are mandatory
if such areas are to achieve proper development. And, the
need for water conservation does not limit itself only to arid
regions. Recognition of the detrimental environmental impact
of high temperature water discharge into an estuary, whose
inhabitants are accustomed to more moderate temperature
levels, makes one realize that the re-cooling and reuse of
water, however abundant, conserves not just that important
natural resource—it conserves nature as well. One helpful
means to that end is the water cooling tower.
Those responsible for the specifications, purchasing and
operation of plant, station, or building cooling systems must
consider many aspects beyond the primary requirement of
dissipating unwanted heat. The following text is devoted
to identifying the primary and peripheral considerations
and offering approaches refined by some eighty years of
experience in the cooling tower industry. The goal is to
assure the implementation of water cooling systems which
will satisfy all design and environmental requirements with
sound engineering and responsible cost.
This manual is not intended to be all-encompassing and
thoroughly definitive. The entire scope of cooling towers is
too broad, and the technology far too advanced, to permit
complete coverage in a single publication. Separate brochures
by SPX Cooling Technologies, either existing or planned, cover
individual topics in depth. The intent herein is to provide a
level of basic knowledge which will facilitate dialogue, and
understanding, between user and manufacturer.