What is the function of drift eliminator in cooling tower

The function of the cooling tower drift eliminator

During the operation of the cooling tower, circulating water comes into contact with air through the fill and evaporates to dissipate heat, while also producing a large number of tiny water droplets that are discharged along with the airflow. If left uncontrolled, these water droplets will be expelled from the cooling tower with the air, leading to increased water consumption, loss of chemical agents, and potential corrosion and pollution to surrounding equipment and the environment. To reduce this phenomenon, a Drift Eliminator must be installed in the cooling tower. This article will introduce the main functions, working principles, and importance of using a drift eliminator.

Introduction to cooling tower drift eliminator

The drift eliminator, also known as a water stopper or defogger, is a set of special structure baffle components installed at the outlet of the cooling tower. Its function is to use channels with multiple bends and bends to capture and reflux water droplets that rise with the airflow into the tower without significantly obstructing air flow.

Main function of cooling tower drift eliminator

1. Reduce Drift Loss

The evaporation loss of cooling towers is normal, but the loss of floating water is unnecessary and can be reduced.

The float can significantly reduce the amount of float water and control the content of discharged water droplets within:

1）<0.002% (efficient float)

2）<0.005% (standard float)

Reducing float can significantly save on water replenishment costs.

2. Prevent the loss of chemical agents

Circulating water usually includes:

1）scale inhibitor

2）Corrosion inhibitor

3）fungicide

If the water droplets are blown away, these medicines will also be lost together, resulting in:

1）Increased processing costs

2）Difficulty in stabilizing water quality

3）Equipment is more prone to scaling, algae growth, and corrosion

The float effectively reduces the waste of chemicals.

3. Reduce environmental pollution and health risks

Drifting water droplets may cause:

1）Salt deposition

2）metal corrosion

3）Soil or plant damage

Increased risk of spread of cooling tower fungi (such as Legionella)

An efficient float can minimize these risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding environment and personnel.

Schematic diagram of the drift eliminator in the cooling tower

Key points for maintenance of cooling tower drift eliminator

1）Regularly check for damage, aging, or deformation

2）Clean up scale, dust, algae, and dirt

3）Ensure that the installation position is secure and there are no gaps or leaks

4）The cleaning cycle depends on the water quality, usually every 3-6 months

Blockage of the drift eliminator will increase air resistance and reduce the efficiency of the cooling tower, which should be dealt with in a timely manner.