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SERIES 3000 COOLING TOWER
Cold Weather Operation
Inspection & Maintenance
BAC products can be operated at subfreezing ambient temperatures provided proper
operating methods are established and diligently followed.
• Carry out frequent visual inspections and routine maintenance services during
operation in subfreezing weather.
• Ensure all controls for capacity and freeze protection are set properly and functioning
normally.
• Prevent excessively high water levels and possible overflow of the cold water basin due
to over pumping, clogged strainers, or make-up valve malfunction.
• Some unit icing can be expected in very cold weather. Usually this will not effect
the operation of the unit. Resolve any icing conditions that may damage the unit
or the supports, impair the system performance, or create a safety hazard.
Fan Section Icing Protection
There are two basic operational methods which can be used to provide the system’s
required cooling: temperature setting and fan control. The method of control employed on
a given application depends upon the climatic extremes which are expected, the variations
in heat load that will be encountered, and the compatibility of the control system with
other portions of the installation.
In subfreezing ambient temperatures, effective icing control may require a combination of
these two methods. Operate each unit with the highest thermal load it can handle, rather
than evenly dividing the total heat load across all cells. During prolonged cold weather
periods, bypass the idle units and drain the basins.
Temperature Setting
Low leaving fluid temperatures promote ice formation. During operation in subfreezing
ambient temperatures, maintain the leaving water temperature as high as possible. Ensure
the unit operates with the maximum possible heat load. The recommended minimum
process fluid temperature is 43°F (6.1°C).
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