Investigating the Effects of Tilt Angle and Fill Perforation on the Performance of Forced Draft Wet Cooling Tower

Abstract

Cooling towers are critical components of the industrial sector, serving a crucial function in dispersing surplus heat to ensure optimal operational efficiency and protect equipment integrity. This study examines the impact of variations in the tilt angle and fill perforations on the performance of forced draft wet cooling towers. The study specifically examines two variables: the tilt angle of fill at θ1= 15°, θ2 = 20°, and θ3 =25°, and the perforation ratios labelled as RP1 = 2.6%, RP2 = 3%, and RP3= 3.6%. The experimental trials involved varying the airflow rates of 0.0203, 0.0263, 0.0299, 0.0377, and 0.0426 kg/s while maintaining a constant water flow rate of 0.0917 kg/s. The results indicate that a tilt angle of θ1° greatly improves the thermal and operational efficiency of the tower. In addition, greater perforation ratios, particularly RP₃, significantly enhance the cooling tower's performance at different tilt angles compared to RP₁ and RP₂.