05-05: Atmospheric Emissions from Evaporative Cooling Towers

Evaporative cooling systems are common elements in many industrial processes, ranged from manufacturing to power production to refining. Because these systems can use large amounts of water, discussions of potential environmental issues usually focus on water intake or wastewater discharge concerns. However, atmospheric emissions from cooling towers can also be important considerations. This paper reviews the major environmental regulations governing atmospheric emissions from cooling towers and examines some of the ways in which associated permit limits might influence cooling tower design and operation.