86-10: Identification of Cooling Tower Wood Attack and Methods of Control

Biological and chemical attack can greatly accelerate the deterioration of cooling tower wood. The damage, once inflicted, is irreversible and often results in premature and costly wood replacement. Biological attack is the more serious type of attack and is difficult to detect. Control of each type is essential for good tower maintenance. A review of wood structures, types of attack and methods for control are presented. Effects of alkaline cooling water operation on wood deterioration are also discussed.