The erection and physical installation of a Cooling Tower requires some pre-preparation whether on the part of the contractor or direct user. To the practiced hand, most of the requirements are obvious, but the check list given below may help the busy engineer to ensure that the major points at least are covered:
Effects of location on Tower
- Will the tower protrude on the skyline and the planning permission required? Most of the authorities/civic bodies include the tower height in to the total height of the building.
- Is the tower roof mounted? If so, is the roof loading satisfactory?
- Is the electricity supply available? What is the voltage, phase and frequency?
- Is the make up water available in sufficient quantity and pressure?
- Are the foundation required, and who provides?
- Does the site allow access for maintenance, painting, treatment and cleaning etc.?
- Does the site provide for drain and over flow?
- Is the tower in best orientation?
Effects of Tower on location
- Particularly on air conditioning, is the noice level suitable for night as well as daytime operation, where applicable?
- Is the building structure of such a type as to transmit vibration or are anti-vibration pads or mountings required?
- Can the moist air discharge escape satisfactorily or does it discharge past and into adjacent windows?
- With the possible combination of high water temperature and winter operation, will the condensing vapour plume prove a nuisance e.g. top floor site in the city?
- Architectural treatment can be applied to the tower and surroundings if required.
Installation
- Prior to erection has been visited?
- Was the access and route of access checked?
- Are scaffolding, crane or hoisting required? Who will provide this?
- Ensure that all safety guards are fitted prior to test.
- How long will off-loading take?
- During erection, remember that full statutory regulation must be observed, local fire regulations, building, safety, health etc.
