1. Scaling problem
Hardness components in water, such as calcium and magnesium ions, are one of the key factors affecting the performance of the Cooling tower. During the operation of the Cooling tower, hot water evaporates continuously, and the concentration of calcium, magnesium and other ions in the water increases relatively. When the concentration of these ions exceeds their solubility limit, scale will form on the surface of the packing, pipes and heat exchangers of the Cooling tower. The thermal conductivity of scale is very poor, which will seriously affect the efficiency of heat exchange. For example, the heat can be smoothly transferred from hot water to the air, but the presence of scale increases the resistance of heat transfer, which greatly reduces the cooling effect of the Cooling tower. Moreover, scaling will also reduce the inner diameter of the pipe and the effective space of the packing, reduce the contact area between water and air, and further reduce the working efficiency of the Cooling tower.
2. Corrosion effect
The pH value and impurity content in the water have an important influence on the corrosion condition of the Cooling tower. If the water quality is acidic (low pH value), it will accelerate the corrosion of metal parts (such as the tower body and pipes of the Cooling tower). In an acidic environment, metal atoms are more likely to lose electrons and be oxidized into metal ions, which will cause damage to the metal structure. At the same time, impurities such as chlorides and sulfides in the water will also participate in the corrosion process, forming local corrosion cells and accelerating the corrosion rate. Corrosion will weaken the structural strength of the Cooling tower, causing problems such as leakage in the equipment, affecting its normal operation, and may shorten the service life of the Cooling tower.
3. Microbial breeding
Water quality will also affect the growth of microorganisms in the Cooling tower. Water contains nutrients required for microbial growth, such as organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. When the water quality conditions are suitable, microorganisms such as algae, bacteria and fungi will breed in large numbers. Microorganisms grow and multiply in the Cooling tower and form biofilms. The biofilm covers the surface of the filler and pipes, which, on the one hand, hinders the heat exchange between water and air and reduces the cooling efficiency; on the other hand, the metabolic activities of microorganisms under the biofilm may produce acidic substances, further exacerbating corrosion. In addition, microbial breeding may also cause odors in the Cooling tower and affect the surrounding environment.
4. Influence of suspended matter
Suspended matter in water also has an impact on the performance of the cooling tower that cannot be ignored. Suspended matter includes silt, rust particles, etc. These suspended matter will accumulate in the water circulation system of the cooling tower, block the gaps in the filler, make the water distribution uneven, and affect the full contact between air and water. For example, in the water distribution system, suspended matter may adhere to the nozzle or water distribution pipe, change the shape of the water flow and the spraying range, resulting in water shortage in some areas and excessive water accumulation in some areas, reducing the heat exchange efficiency of the entire cooling tower.
