Filling system for a cooling tower

Abstract

The present invention relates to a filling system for a cooling tower. The filling system comprising a filling material being permeable to air and water. The filling material being electrically conductive. The filling system further comprising a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector that are operationally connected to the filling material and spaced apart in relation to each other. The filling system further comprising an electrical power source operationally connected to the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector and configured to supply an electric current to the filling material via the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector for reducing growth of microorganisms in the cooling tower.

Description

[0001] FILLING SYSTEM FOR A COOLING TOWER

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present application generally relates to cooling systems, and more particularly to a filling system for a cooling tower. Related domains include details of heat-exchange or heat-transfer apparatus, of general application, treatment of water, wastewater, sewage, or sludge and apparatus for enzymology or microbiology.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] The patent document number RU 123918 U1 discloses a heat and mass transfer packing for cooling towers in the form of a module made of layers of polymer mesh shells, arranged cylindrically and placed parallel to each other in all vertical layers, and welded at the ends of the module where they come into contact. Moreover, distancing inserts are installed on the lower surface of the module, made in the form of swirlers, characterized in that each distancing insert is made of conductive material and is equipped with a vertical electrode, with the connection of the distancing inserts being connected to opposite poles of a direct current source. The current flows through the water between the vertical electrodes. This approach presents limitations.

[0006] Further prior art includes US10561986 which relates to methods and systems for applying a superimposed time-varying frequency electromagnetic wave comprising both AC and DC components in a pulsating manner to water within a water system, such as, for example, cooling water systems

[0007] WO201 9028438 describes a system for reducing evaporative cooling water losses using an electric and magnetic field.

[0008] SE544965 describes a heat exchanger supplying an electric current to one or more partitions of the heat exchanger.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The object of the present invention is to address the problem of microbial growth in cooling towers, which can lead to operational inefficiencies and health hazards. The object of the present invention is in a first aspect achieved by a filling system for a cooling tower, the filling system comprising: a filling material being permeable to air and water, the filling material being electrically conductive, a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector that are operationally connected to the filling material and spaced apart in relation to each other, and an electrical power source operationally connected to the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector and configured to supply an electric current to the filling material via the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector for reducing growth of microorganisms in the cooling tower.

[0011] The filling system according to the first aspect provides solutions for reducing the proliferation of microorganisms within the filling material of cooling towers by utilizing an electrically conductive filling system that allows for the application of an electric current.

[0012] The use of electrically conductive filling material allows for the passage of electric current, which can effectively reduce the growth of microorganisms on the surfaces of the filling material, thereby maintaining the efficiency of heat exchange and reducing the need for chemical biocides.

[0013] The electrically conductive filling material constitutes an uninterrupted resistive conductor between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector.

[0014] The electrical connectors facilitate the distribution of electric current throughout the filling material, ensuring uniform antimicrobial action and preventing localized microbial colonization that could impede air and water flow or reduce heat transfer efficiency.

[0015] The filling system provides the advantage of layered construction, allowing for enhanced structural integrity and improved airflow through the filling material.

[0016] The filling system provides the advantage of fluidity, facilitating efficient water distribution and minimizing stagnation within the cooling tower. The filling system provides the advantage of conductive properties, enabling effective electrical current distribution throughout the filling material to reduce microbial growth.

[0017] The filling system provides the advantage of balanced performance, optimizing the interaction between air and water flow for improved cooling efficiency.

[0018] The filling system provides the advantage of solidified design, ensuring durability and longevity of the filling material under operational conditions.

[0019] The filling system allows for easy integration with existing cooling tower configurations, facilitating retrofitting and upgrades without significant structural modifications.

[0020] The filling system can be tailored to specific operational requirements, offering versatility in terms of performance optimization for different industrial applications.

[0021] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises a filling material comprising a plurality of electrically conductive sheets.

[0022] The plurality of electrically conductive sheets increases the surface area available for heat exchange between the air and water, enhancing the cooling tower's overall performance.

[0023] The conductive sheets can be energized to create an inhospitable environment for microorganisms, which helps in maintaining the cleanliness of the cooling tower and prolonging the service life of the filling material.

[0024] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises sheets forming a plurality of channels through which water and air can flow.

[0025] The formation of channels through the sheets ensures that water and air can flow unimpeded, optimizing the contact time and heat exchange process within the cooling tower.

[0026] The channels facilitate the distribution of water and air throughout the filling system, promoting more efficient cooling by maximizing the exposure of water to the air stream. According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises sheets being corrugated.

[0027] Corrugated sheets create turbulence in the flowing water and air, which increases the heat transfer rate by disrupting boundary layers and enhancing the mixing of the fluids.

[0028] The corrugated design provides structural rigidity to the sheets, which can help withstand the mechanical stresses of operation and reduce the likelihood of deformation over time.

[0029] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises sheets being electrically and / or structurally connected.

[0030] Electrically connecting the sheets ensures that the electric current can be uniformly distributed across the entire filling system, which is critical for maintaining consistent antimicrobial efficacy throughout the cooling tower.

[0031] Structural connections between the sheets contribute to the overall mechanical stability of the filling system, allowing it to maintain its shape and effectiveness even after prolonged use or under varying thermal and flow conditions.

[0032] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises a filling material comprising a plurality of electrically conductive bars.

[0033] The inclusion of a plurality of electrically conductive bars within the filling material enhances the electrical conductivity across the system, facilitating the integration of the system into electrical circuits or enabling the system to function as an electromagnetic shield.

[0034] The conductive bars can also serve to dissipate heat more effectively throughout the system, improving thermal management and potentially increasing the longevity of components that are sensitive to temperature. According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises bars being arranged in a mesh pattern.

[0035] Arranging the bars in a mesh pattern increases the structural integrity of the filling material, providing improved resistance to mechanical stresses and deformation.

[0036] The mesh pattern allows for a uniform distribution of electrical conductivity and mechanical support throughout the material, which can be beneficial for applications requiring consistent performance across the entire surface or volume of the material.

[0037] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises bars being electrically and / or structurally connected.

[0038] Electrically and / or structurally connecting the bars ensures a continuous conductive path throughout the filling material, which can enhance the electrical performance and reliability of the system.

[0039] Structural connections between the bars contribute to the overall robustness of the filling material, reducing the likelihood of component failure due to physical disruptions or vibrations.

[0040] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises a first electrical connector and the second electrical connector being structurally connected to the filling material on opposite sides of the filling material, preferably opposite comers.

[0041] Structurally connecting the first and second electrical connectors to opposite sides, preferably opposite comers, of the filling material provides a stable and secure electrical interface, minimizing the risk of disconnection or contact failure.

[0042] This configuration can also facilitate the even distribution of electrical currents across the filling material, which may reduce hot spots and improve the overall electrical performance of the system. According to a further embodiment of the first aspect, the system further comprises a filling material comprising a polymeric material such as PVC or PP.

[0043] Utilizing a polymeric material such as PVC or PP for the filling material offers chemical resistance to various environmental factors, such as moisture and corrosive substances, thereby enhancing the durability of the system.

[0044] The inherent insulating properties of polymeric materials like PVC and PP provide electrical insulation where needed, which can be critical for safety and for preventing unintended electrical interactions within the system. The filling material can be made electrically conductive where needed by applying coatings or fillers such as carbon black.

[0045] The object of the present invention is in a second aspect achieved by a cooling tower comprising the filling system according to the first aspect, the cooling tower further comprising: a water distribution system positioned above the filling material for dispersing water towards the filling material, and a water collection basin positioned below the filling material in the longitudinal direction for receiving water from the filling material.

[0046] The filling system enhances the efficiency of heat exchange within the cooling tower by providing a larger surface area for water and air interaction. The water distribution system is designed to evenly disperse water over the filling material, ensuring efficient cooling. The water collection basin collects the water that has passed through the filling material, allowing it to be recirculated or discharged as needed.

[0047] According to a further embodiment of the second aspect, the cooling tower comprising a fan for causing a flow of air though the filling material.

[0048] The incorporation of a fan ensures a consistent and controlled airflow through the filling material, which can lead to improved cooling performance and energy efficiency. The fan-assisted airflow can help in maintaining a uniform temperature distribution within the cooling tower, reducing the likelihood of hot spots and enhancing the overall cooling process.

[0049] The fan's operation can be regulated according to the cooling demand, providing operational flexibility and the potential for energy savings during periods of lower cooling requirements.

[0050] According to a further embodiment of the second aspect, the cooling tower being a crossflow cooling tower or a counter flow cooling tower.

[0051] The option to configure the cooling tower as either a crossflow or counterflow system allows for customization based on the specific thermal performance needs and spatial constraints of the installation site. It may also assist maintenance accessibility and / or water distribution efficiency by providing options to optimize for either ease of service or performance.

[0052] The adaptability to different cooling tower designs enhances the system's applicability across a wide range of industries, from HVAC to power generation, where varying operational conditions are encountered.

[0053] The object of the present invention is in a third aspect achieved by a method for reducing microbiological growth in a filling material of a cooling tower the method comprising the steps of: dispersing water towards the filling material by using the water distribution system positioned above the filling material, causing a flow of air through the filling material, operationally connecting the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector to the plurality of elements of the filling material, and, supplying an electrical current to the plurality of elements of the filling material with the electrical power source.

[0054] The method according to the third aspect aims to inhibit microbial growth through the strategic arrangement of conductive materials, facilitating air and water flow while ensuring effective electrical connectivity, thereby addressing the challenges associated with maintaining hygienic conditions in cooling systems.

[0055] The method reduces microbiological growth within the filling material, which can extend the lifespan of the cooling tower components and reduce maintenance costs associated with biofouling.

[0056] By dispersing water and causing airflow through the filling material, the method ensures efficient heat transfer while simultaneously inhibiting microbial proliferation, thereby maintaining the cooling tower's operational efficiency.

[0057] The electrical treatment of the filling material can be seamlessly integrated into the cooling tower's operation, providing a non-chemical approach to biofouling control that avoids the use of potentially harmful biocides.

[0058] According to a further embodiment of the third aspect, the method further comprises an electrical current being and alternating current, preferably having a duty cycle of about 50 %, and / or wherein the electric current is below 10 mA, preferably below 1 mA.

[0059] The use of an alternating electrical current with a specific duty cycle can optimize the electrochemical conditions necessary for microbial control, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.

[0060] The specification of a low electric current below 10 mA, or even below 1 mA, ensures safety for personnel and minimizes the risk of corrosion or damage to the cooling tower components.

[0061] The electrical parameters can be fine-tuned to achieve a balance between energy consumption and microbial growth inhibition, leading to a cost-effective and environmentally friendly operation.

[0062] The object of the present invention is in a presently unclaimed fourth aspect achieved by a vessel system, the vessel system comprising: an electrically conductive vessel, a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector that are operationally connected to the electrically conductive vessel and spaced apart in relation to each other, and an electrical power source operationally connected to the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector and configured to supply an electric current to the vessel via the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector for reducing growth of microorganisms in the cooling tower.

[0063] The use of electrically conductive material for the passage of electric current can be utilized for effectively reduce the growth of microorganisms on other surfaces and equipment associated with the cooling tower reducing the need for chemical biocides. The vessel can be a vessel directly related to the cooling tower such as the cooling water basin, or any other vessel.

[0064] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0065] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements. Embodiments of the application will now be described with reference to the attached drawings:

[0066] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a cooling tower of the counterflow type.

[0067] FIG. 2A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a cooling tower.

[0068] FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of the filling system associated with the cooling tower FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of an alternative cooling tower.

[0069] FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of one layer of the electrically conductive bars.

[0070] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a further alternative cooling tower.

[0071] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the electrically conductive chevron shaped plates. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of a cooling tower of the crossflow type.

[0072] FIG. 6 shows a vessel system comprising an electrically conductive vessel.

[0073] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a cooling tower 10 of the counterflow type incorporating a filling system 12 with a filling material 14. A water distribution system 16 is positioned above the filling material 14 for dispersing hot water 18 through inlet channels 20. The hot water 18 flows slowly through the filling material 14 by gravity while dispersing heat to the filling material 14 and the air. A fan 22 at the top facilitates airflow through the filling system 12. The air flows from the bottom to the top through the filling material 14 while conducting heat away from the filling material 14 and evaporating a portion of the hot water 18. Cold water 18' is collected below the filling material 14 in a collection basin 24 located at the bottom of the cooling tower 10. The filling system 12 comprises an electrical power source 26 for supplying an electric current to the filling material 14 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to combat microorganism growth in the filling material 14. The cooling tower 10 further comprises drift eliminators 30 30’ for preventing water droplets from escaping the cooling tower with the exhaust air, reducing water loss. White arrows indicate the flow of air while black arrows indicate the flow of water.

[0075] FIG. 2A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a cooling tower 10 featuring a filling system 12. The filling system 12 includes a filling material 14 which is electrically conductive and permeable to air and water. The filling material 14 is equipped with a first electrical connector 28 and a second electrical connector 28’, facilitating the supply of an electric current via the electrical power source 26. The filling material 14 consists of multiple electrically conductive sheets 32 that form channels 34 for air and water to flow. Above the filling material 14 is the water distribution system 16 which disperses hot water 18 and below it sits the water collection basin 24 which collects the cool water 18’. The air flow through the filling system 12 is enhanced by a fan 22 at the top, promoting efficient cooling.

[0076] FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of the filling system 12 associated with the cooling tower 10 of FIG. 2A, focusing on the structural arrangement of the filling material 14 and the electrically conductive sheets 32 arranged in contact with each other for conducting electricity and to support the flow of water and air. Also highlighting their corrugated structure and alignment in the filling system 12. The electrical power source 26 supplies an electric current to the electrically conductive sheets 32 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to minimize microbial growth.

[0077] FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a cooling tower 10’ featuring an alternative filling system 12’. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2A / B, the cooling tower 10’ comprises the water distribution system 16 at the top for dispersing hot water 18 downward over the filling material 14’ and a water collection basin 24 at the bottom for collecting cold water 18’. The filling system 12’ comprises an alternative filling material 14’.

[0078] FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of one horizontal layer of the filling material 14’ featuring electrically conductive bars 36. The electrically conductive bars 36 being arranged in multiple layers and forms a grid shape within the cooling tower 10’. These bars 36 form spaces 38 for air and water passage. The electrical power source 26 supplies an electric current to the filling material 14’ via electrical connectors 28 28’ to minimize microbial growth The electrically conductive bars 36 are not arranged in contact with each other but are electrically connected in parallel to each other via wires 40 for conducting electricity. The flow of water and air will be able to pass through the spaces 38. The electrical power source 26 supplies an electric current to the electrically conductive bars 36 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to minimize microbial growth.

[0079] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a cooling tower 10” featuring a further alternative filling system 12”. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2A / B and FIG. 3A / B, the cooling tower 10” comprises a water distribution system 16 at the top for dispersing hot water 18 downward over the filling material 14” and a water collection basin 24 at the bottom for collecting cold water 18’. The water distribution system 16 is positioned above the filling material 14” for dispersing hot water downwards. The cold water is collected at the water collection basin 24 at the bottom.

[0080] FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of one layer of the filling material 14”. In the cooling tower 10” the filling material 14” is made up of a series of electrically conductive chevron shaped plates 42 in multiple layers having spaces 44 in between for facilitating the passage of air and water. This is enhancing the cooling efficiency. The electrically conductive chevron shaped plates 42 are not arranged in contact with each other but are electrically connected in parallel to each other via wires 40 for conducting electricity. The flow of water and air will be able to pass through the spaces 44. The electrical power source 26 supplies an electric current to the electrically conductive chevron shaped plates 42 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to minimize microbial growth.

[0081] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of a cooling tower 10’” of the crossflow type. Similar to FIG. 1 , the cooling tower 10’” includes a filling system 12. The filling material 14 allows air and water to pass through. The water distribution system 16 positioned above the filling material 14 to disperse hot water 18 downward. A fan 22 at the top facilitates airflow through the filling system 12. The water collection basin 24 situated at the bottom to collect dispersed cold water 18’. The filling system 12 comprises an electrical power source 26 for supplying an electric current to the filling material 14 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to combat microorganism growth. White arrows indicate the flow of air while black arrows indicate the flow of water.

[0082] FIG. 6 shows a vessel system 50 comprising an electrically conductive vessel 52. The vessel 52 comprising an inlet 54 and an outlet 56. The vessel system 50 further comprises an electrical power source 26 for supplying an electric current to the vessel 52 via electrical connectors 28 28’ to combat microorganism growth.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A filling system for a cooling tower, the filling system comprising: a filling material being permeable to air and water, the filling material being electrically conductive, a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector that are operationally connected to the filling material and spaced apart in relation to each other, an electrical power source operationally connected to the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector and configured to supply an electric current to the filling material via the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector for reducing growth of microorganisms in the cooling tower.

2. The filling system according to claim 1 , wherein the filling material comprises a plurality of electrically conductive sheets.

3. The filling system according to claim 2, wherein the sheets form a plurality of channels through which water and air can flow.

4. The filling system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the sheets are corrugated.

5. The filling system according to any of the claims 2-4, wherein the sheets are electrically and / or structurally connected.

6. The filling system according to claim 1 , wherein the filling material comprises a plurality of electrically conductive bars.

7. The filling system according to claim 6, wherein the bars are arranged in a mesh pattern.

8. The filling system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the bars are electrically and / or structurally connected.

9. The filling system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are structurally connected to the filling material on opposite sides of the filling material, preferably opposite comers.

10. The filling system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the filling material comprises a polymeric material such as PVC or PP.

11. A cooling tower comprising a filling system according to any of the preceding claims, the cooling tower further comprising: a water distribution system positioned above the filling material for dispersing water towards the filling material, and a water collection basin positioned below the filling material in the longitudinal direction for receiving water from the filling material.

12. The cooling tower according to claim 11 , wherein the cooling tower comprises a fan for causing a flow of air though the filling material.

13. The cooling tower according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the cooling tower is a crossflow cooling tower or a counter flow cooling tower.

14. A method for reducing microbiological growth in a filling material of a cooling tower according to claim 11 , the method comprising the steps of: dispersing water towards the filling material by using the water distribution system positioned above the filling material, causing a flow of air through the filling material, operationally connecting the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector to the plurality of elements of the filling material, and, supplying an electrical current to the plurality of elements of the filling material with the electrical power source.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the electrical current is and alternating current, preferably having a duty cycle of about 50 %, and / or wherein the electric current is below 10 mA, below 1 mA, between 0.1 mA and 1 mA, or between 0.3 mA and 0.7 mA, and / or,, wherein the electric current has a frequency below 100 Hz, below 10 Hz, or below 1 Hz, and / or, wherein the electrical current is supplied at a peak voltage below 120 V, in the range 40 V to 100 V, or in the range 70 to 90 V.

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