Field-erected cooling towers – field mounted – are open circuit towers and are designed for large industrial plants, as they require high flow cooling (500-10,000 m3/h). Unlike other towers, field erected cooling towers are built directly at the site of use, allowing full customization for each project and customer and seamless integration with existing infrastructures.
Advantages of installing cooling towers on site
Energy savings
These towers are open circuit and their cooling process is done by evaporative cooling. This process consumes less energy compared to other cooling methods, which not only reduces operating costs, but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint of industrial facilities.
Capacity for large volumes of water
Field-erected cooling towers are noted for their ability to handle large volumes of water, an important feature in power plants, oil refineries and large manufacturing facilities. Designed to handle large flow rates, these cooling towers make it possible to meet the high cooling demands of the process industry efficiently and economically.
Adaptability and customization
One of the greatest advantages of field-assembled cooling towers is their total customizability. Each tower is specifically designed for the specific needs of each project, allowing each installation to be adjusted and optimized to deliver the most efficient and effective performance. This customization ensures optimum performance, maximizing cooling efficiency and effectiveness. Its on-site construction not only allows precise adaptation to local conditions, but also reduces the costs associated with transporting large components.
Field-assembled cooling towers are versatile and can be adapted to different industrial environments. In addition, their robust construction makes them suitable for operation in harsh conditions, including corrosive and aggressive water environments.
Design and Construction of FECT Towers
Design and Construction of FECT TowersThe design and construction process of a field erected cooling tower involves meticulous planning and a customized approach. First, a thorough assessment of the plant’s cooling requirements is performed, considering heat load, water flow rate and local climatic conditions. Following this analysis, the required materials, structural design and components are determined. Using 3D modeling and simulation tools, tests are performed to predict the tower behavior, optimize its design and, finally, ensure that the tower integrates seamlessly with the existing plant infrastructure.
Common Practices in Cooling Tower Projects
Cooling equipment, which can be made of different materials such as steel and fiberglass, is designed to be energy efficient. Material selection is key to ensuring the durability and optimal performance of cooling towers. In addition, compliance with local and national regulations is critical to prevent accidents and maintain a safe working environment.
Site-assembled open circuit cooling towers are designed for quick and economical installation, offering the flexibility to adapt to each customer’s existing structures or industry.
Field-erected Cooling Tower Maintenance
The maintenance and operation of field-erected cooling towers is crucial to ensure their optimum performance and prolong their service life. This involves carrying out technical inspections, cleaning works and preventive maintenance actions. It is advisable to constantly monitor water levels, chemicals and temperature to ensure efficient operation and prevent sediment and algae build-up. In addition, it is important to check and lubricate mechanical components, such as fans and pumps, to avoid failures and optimize energy consumption.
A well-planned and executed preventive maintenance program ensures the operational safety of cooling towers, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns and unplanned downtime.
Environmental and regulatory considerations
When locating cooling towers in the field, not only should their operational efficiency be taken into account, but also their impact on the surrounding environment. It is important to consider the possible effect on nearby ecosystems, so water aerosol emissions must be controlled and the spread of invasive species must be prevented through proper treatment of the water used in the cooling process.
From a regulatory perspective, these towers must comply with specific regulations related to water and air quality. This may require the implementation of advanced treatment technologies and the adoption of operational practices that minimize environmental impact.
In addition, in terms of sustainability and carbon footprint reduction, it is important to consider the efficient use of energy and the reduction of emissions associated with the operation of these towers in order to reduce, to the greatest extent possible, the environmental impact.
In conclusion, cooling tower life extension and energy efficiency are key aspects when choosing the right cooling system, where field-mounted towers emerge as the leading cooling solution. Their ability to handle large volumes of water efficiently and economically positions them as the preferred choice in different sectors.
Their robust design and adaptability make them suitable for environments where cooling demand is high and varied. In addition, their field installation offers flexibility and speed, allowing them to be integrated into existing structures with minimal disruption to production.
The field-mounted cooling towers – FECT – represent a perfect balance between optimum performance, economy and sustainability, responding to the current needs of the industry in search of efficient and reliable solutions.
At Torraval Cooling we are specialists in the construction and installation of on-site cooling towers. Our commitment to quality, efficiency and safety guarantees optimal and durable solutions that meet the specific needs of each client.