1. What is Cooling Tower Air Flow Rate Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the required air flow rate (CFM) for cooling towers based on heat load and temperature rise.

Purpose: It helps HVAC engineers and technicians properly size cooling tower fans and ventilation systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( CFM \) — Air flow rate (cubic feet per minute)
• \( Q \) — Heat load (BTU per hour)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature rise (°F)
• 1.08 — Constant for air at standard conditions

Explanation: The heat load is divided by the product of the constant and temperature difference to determine required airflow.

3. Importance of Air Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Proper airflow calculation ensures efficient cooling tower operation, prevents overheating, and optimizes energy consumption.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heat load in BTU/h and temperature rise in °F. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 1.08 constant in the formula?
A: It's derived from the specific heat of air (0.24 BTU/lb-°F) and air density (0.075 lb/ft³) at standard conditions.

Q2: What's a typical temperature rise for cooling towers?
A: Most cooling towers operate with ΔT between 10-30°F, depending on design and application.

Q3: How do I find the heat load (Q)?
A: Calculate from system specifications or measure with: Q = 500 × GPM × ΔT (for water systems).

Q4: Does this account for humidity effects?
A: This basic formula assumes dry air. For precise calculations, consider wet bulb temperature and humidity.

Q5: What if my elevation is above sea level?
A: The constant changes with air density. At higher elevations, you'll need more CFM for the same cooling.