Function: Cooling towers are used to cool water that has been heated in industrial processes or in power generation plants. They allow water to be reused instead of continually consuming and discharging fresh water.
Operating principle: Hot water from the industrial process is sprayed at the top of the tower. As the water falls, it comes into contact with an upward current of air, which causes partial evaporation of the water. This evaporation cools the remaining water, which is collected in a pond at the base to be recirculated.
Types: Towers can be natural draft (they take advantage of convection) or mechanical (with fans). There are also open circuit, closed circuit, hybrid, etc.
Materials: They are usually made of reinforced concrete or other resistant materials. The interior filling is usually made of wood, plastic or ceramic to promote water-air contact.
Size: They range from a few meters high to more than 100 meters in large plants. Water flows can exceed 100,000 m3/h.
Location: Due to their size, they are usually outdoors. They are located near the heat source to be cooled.
Environmental impact: They can drag water droplets and release vapors, requiring control measures.