AWWA SOURCES59143

Most ICI customers find initiatives that save water and conserve energy more attractive thaninitiatives that save water alone. Initiatives that do both typically have shorter pay back periods.Frequently, there are energy rebates available to further offset the costs, and equipment retrofitsusually involve standard, off-the shelf technologies, instead of the detailed engineering evaluationsrequired by recycling/reuse projects. Consequently, initiatives that save water and energy mayprovide excellent opportunities for water efficiency programs to promote conservation.Measures that increase the evaporative transfer efficiency also save water by reducing evaporationlosses. This paper discusses the application of variable speed drives (VSD) in cooling tower fansto improve evaporative transfer efficiency and increase overall energy efficiency. The paper alsopresents proposed Code changes in the States of California and Oregon to further theimplementation of VSDs at new facilities, as well as the economic advantages of retrofittingexisting cooling towers with energy and water efficient equipment. The paper also presents acase study that reports ICI customers' comments and experiences regarding implementation ofcooling tower water/energy initiatives. Advantages associated with the use of VSDs in cooling towers include:energy consumption reduction up to 75% for the same heat rejection capacity;water consumption reduction up to 25%, without increasing the number ofconcentration cycles;elimination of splash-out water losses due to the fans frequently being turned off andon;virtual elimination of mechanical shock and noise pollution issues; and,steady cooling tower temperatures, which produce additional energy savings at theplant's chiller equipment. Includes figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

01/11/2004

Number of Pages:

12

File Size:

1 file , 330 KB