Drift Eliminator Cooling Tower Function​

Here is a clear and simple explanation of the function of a drift eliminator in a cooling tower:

⭐ Function of Drift Eliminators in a Cooling Tower

1. Prevent Water Droplet Loss (Drift Control)

As the fan pulls air through the cooling tower, tiny water droplets can get carried out.

These droplets are called drift.

Drift eliminators stop these droplets by forcing the air to move through multiple sharp turns.

Water impacts the surfaces and drains back into the tower.

Main function:

Reduce drift loss to extremely low levels (0.0005–0.005% of circulating water).

2. Reduce Water Consumption

Less drift = less makeup water needed.

This helps lower operating cost, especially in large towers.

3. Prevent Chemical Release to the Environment

Cooling water contains:

* Biocides

* Corrosion inhibitors

* Anti-scale chemicals

Drift eliminators prevent these from being blown into the surroundings.

4. Protect Nearby Equipment, Buildings, and People

Without eliminators, drifting droplets can cause:

* Corrosion on nearby steel structures

* White residue from mineral deposits

* Slippery surfaces

* Mist clouds around the tower

High-efficiency drift eliminators prevent these issues.

5. Help Meet Regulatory Requirements

Many regions require drift losses below:

* 0.005% (standard towers)

* 0.0005% (industrial towers, power plants)

Drift eliminators allow the cooling tower to comply with environmental and safety regulations.

6. Maintain Stable Cooling Tower Performance

Returning drift droplets back into the tower:

* Keeps circulating water volume stable

* Improves thermal efficiency

* Reduces the load on pumps and chemical dosing

⭐ In Summary:

The primary function of drift eliminators is to stop water droplets from escaping the cooling tower by capturing them and returning water back to the system.