1. What is Cooling Tower RT Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the cooling tower capacity in refrigeration tons (RT) based on the heat load in BTU per hour.

Purpose: It helps HVAC professionals and engineers size cooling towers for various applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Cooling tower capacity (refrigeration tons)
• \( Q \) — Heat load (BTU per hour)

Explanation: One refrigeration ton equals 12,000 BTU per hour, so we divide the heat load by this conversion factor.

3. Importance of Cooling Tower Sizing

Details: Proper cooling tower sizing ensures efficient heat rejection, energy savings, and system reliability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the heat load in BTU/h. The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a refrigeration ton?
A: A unit of power equal to 12,000 BTU per hour, originally representing the cooling power of one ton of ice melting in 24 hours.

Q2: How do I determine the heat load?
A: Heat load can be calculated from process requirements, building cooling needs, or equipment specifications.

Q3: Does this include safety factors?
A: No, consider adding 10-20% to the calculated capacity for design margins and future expansion.

Q4: What's the difference between cooling tons and refrigeration tons?
A: They are the same unit of measurement in HVAC applications.

Q5: Can I use this for chiller sizing?
A: This calculates cooling tower capacity. Chiller sizing may require additional factors like COP and temperature differentials.