A cooling tower is a specialized heat rejection device that removes excess heat from water used in industrial processes or HVAC systems. It works by allowing hot water from a condenser or process system to flow through the tower, where it is exposed to air. As the water trickles down through fill media, air is either naturally drawn in or forced through by fans, causing a small portion of the water to evaporate. This evaporation absorbs heat from the remaining water, effectively lowering its temperature
The cooled water is then collected at the base of the tower and recirculated back into the system to absorb more heat. Cooling towers are commonly used in power plants, chemical processing facilities, and large commercial buildings to maintain efficient operation and prevent overheating of equipment. Their design can vary, including natural draft towers that rely on chimney-like structures or mechanical draft towers that use fans for airflow
