Exploring Energy and Water saving potential in An Industrial Cooling plant: A Modeling Approach

One of the most prevalent methods to release the heat generated in industrial processes is to use water as a medium and employ mechanical draft wet cooling towers to cool the water. Energy and water consumption in cooling towers is a matter of great importance, especially in hot and dry regions. The main objective of the present study is to explore the energy and water-saving potential in an industrial cooling plant located in the hot and dry climate of Iran. In order to achieve this goal, firstly, the current state of the cooling plant must be investigated. Based on the current operation of the plant and a psychometric analysis of the cooling towers, a control strategy is considered to improve energy and water efficiency. Then, a model of the cooling plant is created using TRNSYS software and validated against measurement data. The model is utilized to simulate the impact of the control strategy throughout the year under different operational modes. Results indicate that regulating the temperature of the cooling water can save a significant amount of water and energy.