RACA Journal February 2020 | Page 45

Projects maximum operating speed, which reduced the maximum noise levels in consideration to nearby residents,” he explains. SAVING WATER AND ELECTRICITY What makes the system special/unique is the ability to maintain the temperature efficiency of a fully evaporative cooling tower at a fraction of the water consumption, it saves water and power. “Due to the extreme efficiency and significant surface area of the adiabatic unit, it also allows the possibility of free cooling at low ambient temperatures, once the system allows for it. During winter the chiller can be bypassed completely which will save significantly on overall power,” adds Glenn. Other sustainable aspects of the unit include: • IE4 EC fans which modulate speed according to a targeted outlet temperature of 28⁰C, • The units were selected for a very low coil pressure drop, which allows lower pump operating energy, • Based on simulated building load, the calculated water saving is approximately 99%, • Based on simulated building load, the calculated energy saving is approximately 32%. www.hvacronline.co.za PLUGGING IT IN According to Glenn, the client is very happy. “Even during peak summer conditions, the units rarely need to initiate the precooling pads. There is a cooling system suited to each application, and the site requirements need to be considered before a selection is to be made, it is still possible that in some RACA Journal I February 2020 The client sought to replace the old cooling towers but retain the performance thereof. 43