Valves and flow equipment for cooling water systems

Cooling water systems are used in industrial plants, power generation units, chemical processes, HVAC systems, refrigeration units and auxiliary production networks. Their operation is based on controlled water circulation through heat exchangers, condensers, cooling towers, pumping stations, process equipment and distribution networks.

Valves in cooling water circuits are selected according to flow rate, pressure, differential pressure, temperature, water quality, possible presence of solids, corrosion, fouling and the function of each network section. Correct sizing helps limit pressure losses, insufficient flow through heat exchangers, reverse flow and hydraulic instability.

Typical applications

• Open cooling water circuits with cooling towers and collection basins.
• Closed cooling water circuits on heat exchangers, machinery and auxiliary systems.
• Supply and return lines on condensers, chillers and heat exchangers.
• Circulation pumping stations, standby pumps and bypass lines.
• Filtration, water treatment, drainage and make-up water systems.
• Cooling circuits in chemical plants, steelworks, paper mills and food production.
• Venting, draining, filling, isolation and hydraulic balancing lines.
• Auxiliary instrument, automation and compressed air networks for actuators.

Equipment selection criteria

• Design flow rate, minimum flow rate and allowable pressure drop.
• Operating pressure, design pressure and valve differential pressure.
• Cooling water supply and return temperature.
• Water quality, conductivity, hardness, chemical treatment and possible corrosion.
• Presence of suspended solids, deposits, biological growth or particles from the network.
• Isolation, control, non-return, balancing or overpressure protection function.
• Seat, stem and connection tightness requirements.
• Operating frequency and need for connection to PLC, BMS, DCS or SCADA.
• Access for inspection, cleaning, equipment isolation and maintenance.

Indicative equipment

• Isolation valves for supply, return, bypass and drainage lines.
• Control valves for flow, temperature or differential pressure regulation.
• Balancing valves for hydraulic adjustment of branches and heat exchangers.
• Check valves for pump protection and backflow prevention.
• Safety and relief valves for protection of closed network sections.
• Line strainers for protection of control valves, heat exchangers, nozzles and pumps.
• Air vents, drain valves and network drainage equipment.
• Pressure reducing valves and pressure regulators for auxiliary or make-up water lines.
• Pneumatic and electric actuators for remote or automatic operation.

For each application, the circuit operating data, required flow rate, temperature difference, differential pressure, water quality, installation point and valve function in the control system should be reviewed. These data define the valve type, nominal size, pressure class, construction materials, sealing arrangement and suitable actuation method.