Blowdown Rate Formula:
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Blowdown rate refers to the rate at which water is deliberately drained from a cooling tower system to control the concentration of dissolved solids and impurities. It helps maintain optimal cycles of concentration while preventing scale formation and corrosion.
The calculator uses the blowdown rate formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the required blowdown rate to maintain desired cycles of concentration in the cooling tower system, balancing water conservation with system protection.
Details: Proper blowdown rate calculation is essential for maintaining water quality, preventing scale buildup, controlling corrosion, optimizing chemical treatment, and reducing water consumption in cooling tower operations.
Tips: Enter evaporation rate in m³/h and cycles of concentration (must be greater than 1). All values must be valid positive numbers with COC > 1 for meaningful results.
Q1: What are typical cycles of concentration values?
A: Typical COC values range from 3 to 7 cycles, depending on water quality, system design, and treatment chemicals used.
Q2: How is evaporation rate calculated?
A: Evaporation rate is approximately 1-2% of circulating water flow rate for each 10°F (5.6°C) temperature drop across the tower.
Q3: What happens if blowdown rate is too low?
A: Insufficient blowdown leads to high dissolved solids concentration, increasing scaling, corrosion, and microbial growth risks.
Q4: What happens if blowdown rate is too high?
A: Excessive blowdown wastes water, increases chemical consumption, and raises operating costs unnecessarily.
Q5: How often should blowdown rate be adjusted?
A: Blowdown rates should be monitored regularly and adjusted based on water quality analysis, system conditions, and seasonal changes.