11-02: The 3 R's of Sustainable Water Cooled Systems Operation

To iterate the fact that cooling towers are inherently economically and environmentally ‘green’. This paper will utilize the main strategies of ‘green’, i.e. reduced energy, water conservation and recycling with a focus on sustainability. A comparison of air cooled verses water cooled systems will be approached from several vantage points; energy consumption, water consumption and GHG emissions each of which will be delineated. A review of water treatment technology and its impact on water use, improved operational efficiency, and environmental impact will be explored. Factors to be considered will be cycles of concentration and operational load. A conclusion can be reached that cooling towers are truly a sustainable and viable option in heart exchange systems for creature comfort.