1. What is Cooling Tower Performance Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the thermal performance efficiency of a cooling tower based on temperature measurements.

Purpose: It helps HVAC engineers and facility managers evaluate cooling tower operation and efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Cooling tower efficiency (dimensionless)
• \( T_{in} \) — Hot water inlet temperature (°F)
• \( T_{out} \) — Cooled water outlet temperature (°F)
• \( T_{wb} \) — Ambient wet bulb temperature (°F)

Explanation: The formula compares the actual temperature drop to the maximum possible temperature drop (approach to wet bulb).

3. Importance of Cooling Tower Efficiency

Details: Proper efficiency calculation helps identify performance issues, optimize energy use, and maintain system capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all temperatures in °F. T_in must be greater than T_wb for valid results. Typical efficiency ranges from 0.6 to 0.75.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good efficiency value?
A: Most cooling towers operate between 60-75% efficiency. Values below 50% may indicate problems.

Q2: Why use wet bulb temperature?
A: Wet bulb represents the lowest possible cooling temperature achievable by evaporative cooling.

Q3: How often should efficiency be checked?
A: Monthly checks are recommended for critical systems, quarterly for general applications.

Q4: What affects cooling tower efficiency?
A: Factors include air flow, water flow, fill condition, ambient conditions, and water quality.

Q5: Can efficiency exceed 100%?
A: No, 100% would mean outlet temperature equals wet bulb temperature, which is theoretically impossible.